Gen Z Against Corruption: How Protest Art Thrives in the Digital Age

When the flood control scandal exposed yet another wave of corruption, many young Filipinos did not just respond with anger; they became creative with it. Memes mock failed projects and those involved, while protest-themed OPM and P-pop songs resurface on Spotify and TikTok. These indicate a movement that pits Gen Z against corruption, where humor and art have become tools of protest.

Humor as Resistance

In the Philippines, Gen Z has long turned humor into a weapon against power. In the case of the flood control scandal, social media pages like FTTM (Follow The Trend Movement) and PGAG amplify this by creating memes that mock failed projects and government inefficiency. The September 21 protests also saw young Filipinos reference pop culture in their placards, from One Piece to the 3rd season of Drag Race Philippines.

According to Dr. Nestor T. Castro, anthropology professor at UP Diliman, this instinct to mock authority is deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Especially for members of the oppressed and the marginalized, they know these jokes carry deeper meanings.

“Filipinos resort to humor on many occasions, such as just to enjoy the moment in the company of others. But also in cases of political expression, especially in times when it is considered subversive to criticize the government or power holders,” he said.

The Soundtrack of Frustration

Music has also been integral in the fight of Gen Z against corruption. 

There are songs that were born out of the outrage against the flood control scandal, such as Bulsa by Justin Taller feat. Sky Bryant, Eunizz, and EL JUICE. Meanwhile, other songs, like Upuan by Gloc-9 and Kapangyarihan by Ben&Ben and SB19, have resurfaced because their messages about government accountability and corruption remain as relevant as ever.

These tracks have become a modern battle cry, turning frustration into awareness and connecting young Filipinos who demand transparency and action from those in power.

READ: Millennial People Power: How Social Media is Affecting Today’s Activism

Protest art has reached new heights in the fight of Gen Z against corruption. From memes to music, young Filipinos are turning frustration into awareness and demanding accountability. Because in today’s digital age, humor and creativity have become powerful weapons to expose corruption and inspire change.