ADVERTISEMENTMarches and rallies by leftist groups during Sona have been marked by antigovernment slogans and placards and streamers that condemn government shortcomings. Other issues that the leftist Mindanao groups are to present to Mr. Duterte are genuine agrarian reform, national industrialization and promotion of workers’ rights. This time, however, leftist groups have taken on a different appearance. Leftist groups headed for past Sona under the Arroyo and Aquino administrations had been blocked from proceeding to the Batasang Pambansa, which the House of Representatives occupies, by security forces. The march, dubbed Manilakbayan, is being led by Gabriela and other leftist groups, like Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and Bayan, and human rights advocates in Mindanao.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer July 23, 2016 16:38 UTC