The black-clad protesters set a container van on fire near Malacanang. (Photo courtesy of the Manila Public Information Office)
The Manila Police District (MPD) announced that a group of so-called “hip-hop gangsters,” allegedly influenced by a rapper, were among those arrested during the Sept. 21 protest action in Manila.
While the main program in Luneta pushed through peacefully, disturbances later spread to Ayala Bridge, Mendiola, and Recto, where protesters clashed with authorities and toppled barricades.
According to PIO Chief Maj. Philipp Ines, the MPD is disheartened by the aggressive actions of some protesters, most of whom had their faces covered, despite the implementation of maximum tolerance.
Related story: https://mb.com.ph/2025/09/21/no-face-no-case-protesters-converge-on-luneta-as-barricades-removed
He said that MPD officers exercised restraint even as the tension escalated.
Authorities mentioned a tally of 216 arrested protesters, including 89 minors.
Those arrested may face charges including arson, direct assault, and malicious mischief, depending on the results of the ongoing investigation.
Maj. Ines assured the public that police are upholding due process.
“May proseso na dadaanan, tinitiyak na irerespeto bawat isa at babantayan. Mataas po ang respeto natin sa karapatan ng bawat isa lalo na yung nasa custody natin (There is a process to follow, we assure that everyone will be respected and monitored. We hold the rights of everyone, especially those in custody, in the highest regard)."
Among the arrested were 24 children at risk or 12 years old and below.
“Pag napatunayan na alam nila ang ginagawa nila, mananagot sila sa batas (If it is proven that they knew what they were doing, then they will be held accountable under the law)."
Police also reported an initial count of 95 policemen injured, with 70 still admitted in different hospitals as of the latest update.
While reports of an alleged casualty circulated online, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Remulla clarified that no casualties were reported.
Authorities maintained they would continue to exercise maximum tolerance, emphasizing their dual duty of ensuring public order and upholding human rights.