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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Nartatez commends cops after peaceful end of 3-day INC rally

Nartatez commends cops after peaceful end of 3-day INC rally

PNP Chief praises disciplined, impartial policing as protest ends peacefully

Published Jul 3, 2026 01:15 pm

At A Glance

  • PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended police personnel for ensuring the peaceful conclusion of the three-day Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally while safeguarding public order and the right to peaceful assembly.
  • The INC protest ended on July 2 with about 4,400 participants after moving from the People Power Monument in Quezon City to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila. The rally was held in support of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta.
  • Nartatez thanked police officers for their professionalism after INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala acknowledged their security efforts, saying the PNP will continue to enforce the law fairly and protect the constitutional rights of all Filipinos.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. monitors the situation at the PNP Command Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on June 30, 2026 as police units remain on the ground along EDSA following reports of a lightning protest by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC). (Photo: Office of the Chief PNP)
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. monitors the situation at the PNP Command Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on June 30, 2026 as police units remain on the ground along EDSA following reports of a lightning protest by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC). (Photo: Office of the Chief PNP)
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. on Friday, July 3, commended all police personnel who secured the three-day protest of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), saying the operation showed restraint and professionalism while protecting the public's right to peaceful assembly.
“The peaceful conclusion of the three-day rally reflects the professionalism, discipline, and restraint demonstrated by our police personnel,” Nartatez said in a statement.
The INC wrapped up its demonstration on Thursday, July 2, with an estimated 4,400 participants on the final day. National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) regional director Police Major General Anthony A. Aberin, who admitted to being a member of the INC, led the police deployment to secure the event.
The group first assembled at the People Power Monument in Quezon City on June 30 before transferring to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila after the Quezon City government revoked its rally permit.
The religious organization held the rally to express support for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who is facing plunder charges over the alleged non-declaration of campaign contributions.
“I commend every officer who faithfully performed their duty while respecting the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. Their commitment to maintaining peace, ensuring public safety, and coordinating closely with local authorities and event organizers made this operation a success,” Nartatez said.
Meanwhile, INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala thanked police officers for providing security and helping ensure the safety of participants throughout the three-day gathering.
During the first day of the protest, several rallyists were arrested by the police for allegedly disrupting public order and hurting cops. The initial lightning rally held last Tuesday caused major traffic disruption along EDSA.
“We appreciate the acknowledgment from the organizers. The Philippine National Police remains committed to serving all Filipinos with fairness, professionalism, and impartiality,” Nartatez said.
He said the police organization would continue performing its mandate regardless of the group involved in any public assembly.
“Our duty is to protect the public, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that everyone can peacefully exercise their constitutional rights regardless of their affiliation or beliefs,” he said.

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