Behind the hassle-free and peaceful gathering of almost 1.6 million people at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Monday, Jan. 13 for the national rally for peace was thousands of cops and other personnel from various government agencies who spent sleepless nights in the preparation, and the whole-day actual implementation of security measures.
And for that, Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), lauded all his men deployed to secure the Iglesia Ni Cristo’s national rally for peace which he described as peaceful and smooth conduct of the event.
Aberin extended the expression of gratitude to the military, other law enforcement agencies, local government units (LGUs) and even the INC for participating in the planning and actual implementation of security measures.
“The peaceful, orderly and highly-organized exercise of the right to peaceably assemble is attributed to the stringent preparations jointly made by the leadership of Iglesia Ni Cristo, the NCRPO, the LGU and other agencies of government,” said Aberin.
“I thank every member of the security force deployed for their dedication and commitment to maintain peace and ensure public safety,” he added.
Aberin also lauded the discipline and cooperation demonstrated by all participants as he emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations.
He said that t such partnerships are essential in maintaining peace and security during public events, showcasing the collective effort required for successful and safe gatherings
At least 4,500 policemen were deployed to secure the event, with around 500 augmentation forces from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine Coast Guard.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also deployed around 1,300 of its personnel for traffic management, aside from other personnel who were tasked to clear all the road and alternate routes for the event on Monday.
INC members started to arrive as early as Sunday, Jan. 12, and the following day, the crowd already reached 1.5 million by noon. The event concluded at around 5:30 p.m.
Aberin personally supervised the deployment of officers in reinforcing safety in all key areas.
He said Personnel from Police Regional Offices 3 and 4A, the Special Action Force (SAF), and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-NCRPO bolstered security operations.
Aberin said comprehensive safety measures were implemented, including designated entry and exit points, medical teams on standby, and seamless coordination with event organizers.
“Law enforcement officers maintained vigilant oversight throughout the event, ensuring immediate response to concerns,” said Aberin.