A GROUP rallies against corruption at Fuente Osmeña in Cebu City on Sunday, Sept. 21. (Photo via Calvin Cordova)
CEBU CITY – At least 700 people participated in protest rallies here on Sunday, Sept. 21.
The Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7) reported that these protest rallies ended without any violence.
One protest rally was held in the morning and another took place in the afternoon.
Students, religious groups, labor unions, farmers, fisherfolk, artists, and other sectoral organizations participated in the rallies amid public outcry for truth and accountability in government infrastructure projects.
The rallies were held to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of martial law.
Protesters assembled at Fuente Osmeña Circle before marching through Colon St. in the morning.
Later in the afternoon, protesters gathered at P. Del Rosario St. then marched to Fuente Osmeña Circle where they held a program.
A separate group of demonstrators gathered at Plaza Independencia in the pier area.
Protesters demanded accountability from those involved in massive corruption in government projects.
Police Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, chief of PRO-7, commended police personnel for maintaining the peaceful conduct of rallies.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our troops whose professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to duty made this peaceful outcome possible. Your efforts exemplify the highest standards of police service in Central Visayas,” said Maranan.
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) was on full alert on Sunday as part of the security preparations for the rallies.
Five-hundred policemen from the Civil Disturbance Management team and Reactionary Standby Support Forces were on standby for any trouble would erupt.
Maranan said the situation in various areas in Cebu and Bohol were closely monitored.