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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider No physical abuse or torture of those arrested in Sept. 21 rallies — MPD

No physical abuse or torture of those arrested in Sept. 21 rallies — MPD

Published Sep 30, 2025 10:24 am

The Manila Police District (MPD) denied claims of maltreatment or torture of the individuals arrested during the Sept. 21 anti-corruption rallies, MPD Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Abad stressed.

Youth protesters clad in black wave the Philippine flag and the Jolly Roger insignia from the anime
Youth protesters clad in black wave the Philippine flag and the Jolly Roger insignia from the anime "One Piece" during the Sept. 21 demonstration in Manila. (Photo from Manila PIO)

Abad assured that the individuals placed under police custody during the demonstration and riot, including minors and a person with disability (PWD), were given proper care, disposition, and intervention.

He said the MPD upholds its commitment to ensuring that the rights of every individual are recognized and respected. 

"During their temporary custody, the MPD provided a spacious and air-conditioned room, nutritious food, decent clothing, other basic necessities, and 24-hour security to ensure their safety and welfare. They were all treated in accordance with the laws. Those who sustained injuries during the violent riot in the guise of protest were given immediate medical attention. Access to legal representation was also accorded, and all of their rights were fully upheld," the official explained.

"The Manila Police District reaffirms that no torture, physical abuse, or any form of maltreatment was inflicted upon any individual at any stage of custody. We value the public’s vigilance on this matter and pledge our continued dedication to serve and protect our fellow citizens, including those in our custody regardless of circumstance," he added.

On Sept. 22, the MPD announced that 216 people were nabbed during the protest action in Manila, including 89 minors. 

Approximately 95 policemen were also reported hurt during the demonstration after youths clad in black clothing and masks attacked police barricades in Mendiola and Ayala Bridge. 

Later that evening, a riot along Recto Avenue also ensued between the police and other youths who burned vehicles, destroyed public and private properties worth millions, and vandalized and robbed a motel.

Released

On Sept. 25, Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso ordered the release of the youths involved in the riot in Recto that were placed under police custody.

According to the Manila Prosecutor’s Office, the minors, classified as Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), will undergo a diversion program in accordance with the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (Republic Act No. 9344), as amended by RA 10630.

The law allows CICL to be diverted from formal judicial proceedings and instead placed into community-based programs that focus on restorative justice rather than punishment.

The release was conducted in the presence of Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) Director Jay Dela Fuente and Ma. Victoria Diaz, OIC of the Child Rights Center of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

As part of the agreement, the parents of the minors pledged their cooperation with the city government.

They agreed to help clean Manila and to take full responsibility for supervising their children while they complete the diversion program.

The mayor stressed the value of accountability while also upholding the rights of individuals, especially minors.

Related Tags

Mpd pwd minors arrested torture physical abuse anti-corruption rally riot metro news manila city isko moreno domagoso
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