Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines president and Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo joined a march of about 1,000 protesters from religious, militant and professionals groups in Iloilo City yesterday.

“I view (the protests) as a sign that civil society, our young people, are waking up to the demands of truth and justice in our government,” Lagdameo said in an interview at the grounds of the Iloilo provincial capitol where an inter-faith rally was held.

“It is a sign that the people are waking up. (When they (are) fully awake, there will be greater demands on them (government),” he said.

Many people expect the protests to escalate, he said.

“How? Only the future will tell,” he said.

He asked not to speak during the rally but joined the march dubbed “Walk for Truth and Justice” from the grounds of the St. Clement's Church in La Paz District about 800 meters from the grounds of the provincial capitol.

This is the first time that the 67-year-old prelate has marched with protesters since he became Archbishop of Jaro on May 2000.

“My walking with the people in solidarity with them is already a statement that I have in my heart their own sentiments,” said Lagdameo when asked why he joined the march.

Lawyers, physicians, businessmen, students, nuns and priests marched together with slum dwellers, drivers and workers.

Groups that joined the protest included the Philippine Independent Church, United Church of Christ in the Philippines, Jesus Is Lord Movement, Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, as well as militant groups including the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan and the women's group Gabriela.

Many of the protesters carried placards and streamers calling for the resignation of President Macapagal-Arroyo. Others carried small sticks with white ribbons symbolizing their call for truth and accountability.

Protesters in the capital town of Kalibo in Aklan led by Bayan also joined the protest by lighting candles.*NPB

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