Cops secure EDSA after protesters move to Manila; PNP still on alert
Police forces especially in Metro Manila and two nearby regions remain on alert as protesters supporting Sen. Rodante Marcoleta moved to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila after the Quezon City government rejected the application for a rally permit at the People Power Monument.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said a sufficient number of personnel will be deployed not only to secure the activity but also protect the rights of the motorists, commuters and students that would be affected in the new rally site.
And following the revocation of the rally permit in Quezon City, Nartatez vowed to enforce the law with absolute impartiality especially in clearing the areas previously occupied by the protesters.
“The Philippine National Police respects the local government’s decision to revoke the rally permit, which was based on the need to restore public convenience and ensure the safety of our commuters,” Nartatez said.
“Without a permit, any assembly becomes a matter of public order and traffic management, and we will enforce the law with the same firmness and fairness,” he added.
The Quezon City government withdrew the permit it had earlier issued for the planned Thursday assembly of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) after citing the severe inconvenience and traffic congestion caused by the previous two days of gatherings.
Nartatez directed the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) to maintain sufficient deployment in Quezon City and nearby areas where gatherings may occur.
He also ordered field commanders to prioritize dialogue and negotiation before any enforcement action if participants still proceed with the assembly despite the absence of a valid permit.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno earlier said that they will not require the INC to apply for a permit since the Liwasang Bonifacio is a freedom park.
Nartatez also tasked the NCRPO, under Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, to ensure the safety of both protesters and people that will be affected by the rally in Manila.
Aberin earlier said that he also requested for additional personnel, especially that the new rally site is near the Malacañang Palace.