The Philippine National Police (PNP) has begun security preparations for possible protests and rallies to mark former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 81st birthday on March 28.

In a statement on Wednesday, PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he has already tasked chiefs of police offices and other unit heads to prepare the deployment of police officers in areas where rallies are expected to be held.

“We are laying the groundwork to ensure that public assemblies remain orderly and secure. Our priority is to maintain public safety while providing a protected space for our fellow citizens to exercise their right to peaceful expression,” Nartatez said.

The PNP, he said, will also coordinate with local government units and other concerned agencies to support this effort.

He assured that law enforcement would engage with organizers of the expected rallies as part of the established practice of dialogue between the police and civil society groups during major demonstrations.

Nartatez said the aim is to foster cooperation and prevent misunderstandings.

Supporters of the former President, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court detention center in The Hague on charges of crimes against humanity, have signaled plans for gatherings on his birthday.

Nartatez noted that the PNP respects any protest action by the public.

“Inirerespeto naman ng kapulisan ang mga aktibidad na kanilang gagawin. Nakaalerto ang PNP upang siguraduhin na ligtas at matahimik ang gagawing pagprotesta sa araw na iyon (The police respect the activities they will undertake. The PNP is on alert to ensure that the protest that day will be held safely and peacefully),” he said.

Nartatez reiterated that the PNP will enforce maximum tolerance at all times, noting that the police will only intervene if violations of the law are committed to prevent conflict between law enforcers and protesters. (PNA)