‘Fish ball warrior’ released from jail

MANILA, Philippines — More Sept. 21 protesters have been freed from detention, including the “fish ball warrior” who went viral on social media.

Alvin Karingal was released from a “weeklong illegal detention,” according to his lawyer Maria Sol Taule.

Taule, a human rights activist, echoed Karingal’s call during anti-corruption protests in Manila to “bring down the price of kwek-kwek, fish ball and kikiam.”

Based on earlier reports, “undisclosed charges” against Karingal were dropped.

In the 2025 midterm elections, Karingal ran for Manila mayor. His mother Marianne said he was diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Meanwhile, the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 27 has ordered the Manila Police District (MPD)’s Baseco station to free Daniel Gio Angelo Veneracion Caballes from detention.

Caballes, an engineering student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, reportedly posted bail of P18,000.

He was directed to appear for his arraignment and pre-trial on Oct. 7.

Fifty-five minors and 25 adults have been ordered freed from MPD detention following their arrests during anti-corruption protests on Sept. 21.