Protesters in Manila Accuse Government of Misusing Environmental Funds NYT | Top Stories By: Aie Balagtas See 21 September 2025 at 18:43 Demonstrations were set off by accusations that flood relief money was embezzled. They are part of a wave of discontent about economic inequality in several countries in Asia. © Ezra Acayan/Getty ImagesAnti-government protesters in Manila on Sunday.