MANILA — In a country long plagued by corruption scandals, a new force is emerging — and it’s not from the halls of Congress or the courts. It’s from the youth.
Across campuses and social media, young Filipinos are increasingly vocal about holding leaders accountable, signaling that the fight against corruption is no longer just the job of government institutions or watchdogs. From university chants to online campaigns, students are using creativity, humor, and moral outrage to call out graft wherever they see it.
At a recent UAAP game, De La Salle University students made headlines after chanting “D-L-S-U laban sa korap!” — turning a school cheer into a political statement. The University of the Philippines crowd, known for its activism, also echoed the sentiment with its now-famous call: “Ikulong na ’yan, mga kurakot!” The chants, amplified across social media, quickly resonated beyond the sports arena.
“It’s more than just a cheer; it’s a cry for integrity,” said sociology student Angela Reyes. “Our generation is tired of seeing the same faces accused of corruption and walking free.”
Experts say the youth are becoming the third pillar in the anti-corruption movement — alongside law enforcement and civil society. Unlike previous generations, they wield the power of digital platforms, memes, and viral content to challenge impunity in real time.
“The young are reshaping civic engagement,” political analyst Leonor Pineda said. “They’re not waiting for institutions to act. They’re demanding accountability through culture, through online discourse, and even through sports.”
While corruption remains deeply rooted in the Philippines, the growing participation of the youth adds moral weight — and a sense of urgency — to the conversation. Their chants may sound like noise to some, but to many, they represent a powerful awakening.
As one student banner at the Araneta Coliseum put it: “Walang forever sa korapsyon — kung kikilos ang kabataan.”
