POLICE officers receive treatment after they were injured by protesters in Manila on Sunday. (Photo via Liezle Basa-Inigo)
Around 10 police officers from Region 3 or Central Luzon were injured by protesters in Manila on Sunday.
Around 500 Police Regional Office-3 policemen were deployed to assist in maintaining peace and order in Mendiola.
The protest started peacefully but escalated when some rallyists engaged in disruptive acts that posed risks to civilians and law enforcers.
Despite the disorder, police held the line to prevent further escalation and safeguard the public.
PRO-3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr. said that they remain committed to the Philippine National Police’s core directives.
“In line with the seven focus agenda of the acting chief PNP, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., we assure the public that PRO-3 personnel will continue to exercise maximum tolerance. While some of our personnel have sustained injuries, our call to the public remains the same: Let us remain calm, respect the rights of others, and conduct assemblies in a safe and peaceful manner, " he said.
Penones assured that PRO-3 will always uphold the people’s constitutional right to expression and peaceful assembly. However, Penones said they will not hesitate to act when laws are violated or public safety is at risk.
Meanwhile, the PRO-3 distributed rice and grocery packs to residents and communities in Bataan and Bulacan on Sunday.
Penones spearheaded the initiative. “We are not only here to maintain peace and order, but also to extend a hand of service to our fellow citizens. This is how we show that the police truly care for the community,” Peñones said.