Police forces securing the remaining days of the three-day anti-corruption rallies remain on highest alert despite what the Philippine National Police (PNP) described as peace and orderly first day of the assemblies in Manila and Quezon City.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said all the personnel on the ground will remain on maximum service mode, which means extending all the necessary assistance and treat rally venues as public safety zones where citizens can freely express their views without fear or physical threat.

“Police are deployed as public servants and first responders. In large rallies like this, our objective is to provide maximum service, which means preparing for and responding to any incident—from enforcing the law to managing traffic and providing immediate medical attention,” said Nartatez.

Nartatez inspected the key deployment areas in Manila, particularly the Quirino Grandstand and the Mendiola. He was with Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Metro Manila police director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin.

In the inspection, Nartatez closely monitored deployed personnel, providing guidance to ensure strict compliance with police procedures, and promoting fair and respectful engagement with the public.

He also met with some of the assembly organizers and assured them of maximum police assistance.

More than 16,000 policemen were tapped to secure the three-day rallies.

Nartatez commended the policemen on the ground for doing a good job in implementing the public safety and security plan.

Unity and Discipline

Nartatez also lauded the assembly organizers, particularly the Iglesia ni Cristo, for coordination and cooperation to ensure the safety of over 600,000 of its members who attended the rally.

On the other hand, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) expressed gratitude to the INC for what it described as a peaceful, orderly and meaningful first day of the 3-Day Peace Rally for Transparency, Accountability, and Justice.

Aberin said the strengthened coordination and open communication paved the way to a comprehensive and flexible security coverage.

“Unity and discipline among members were key factors that led to a well-organized and peaceful activity yesterday, November 16,” said Aberin.

“Our presence on the ground is to ensure that the people’s sacred rights to freedom of speech, of expression and of peaceful assembly are exercised without hindrance while at the same time, prioritizing the safety and security of everyone,” he added.

Aberin said they will remain focused in ensuring the safety of the rally participants in the next two days of the activity.

“The NCRPO stays committed to protecting the public and keeping the flow of events peaceful and organized. With continued cooperation from all sectors, we are hopeful that this atmosphere of peace and unity will continue,” he said.