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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Authorities probe caskets with anti-China, anti-rebel banners in Metro Manila

Authorities probe caskets with anti-China, anti-rebel banners in Metro Manila

Published Aug 7, 2026 11:58 am

At A Glance

  • Five caskets bearing anti-China and anti-CPP-NPA messages were abandoned in separate areas of Metro Manila early Friday, Aug. 7, prompting a police investigation.
  • PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered a comprehensive probe while NCRPO investigators review CCTV footage to identify the masked individuals who left the caskets aboard white and gray vans.
  • Police units across Metro Manila were placed on heightened vigilance as NCRPO urged the public to remain calm, avoid unverified information and report suspicious activity.
One of the abandoned caskets found in Metro Manila was seen at Welcome Rotunda in Barangay Sta. Teresita, Quezon City early Friday, Aug. 7. Authorities are investigating the incidents involving caskets left in several areas across the region. (Photo courtesy of the Quezon City Police District)
One of the abandoned caskets found in Metro Manila was seen at Welcome Rotunda in Barangay Sta. Teresita, Quezon City early Friday, Aug. 7. Authorities are investigating the incidents involving caskets left in several areas across the region. (Photo courtesy of the Quezon City Police District)
At least five caskets carrying anti-China and anti-Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) messages were left in separate locations in Metro Manila, prompting an investigation on Friday, Aug. 7.
The caskets were found in Sta. Cruz, Manila; Barangay 54 in Caloocan City; Barangay South Triangle and Barangay Sta. Teresita in Quezon City; and along Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City.
Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered a comprehensive probe to establish the facts and circumstances behind the incidents.
"The Philippine National Police (PNP) is aware of the circulating videos and social media posts regarding abandoned caskets reportedly found in different parts of Metro Manila," Nartatez said.
"The concerned police units are validating each reported incident and are coordinating with the respective local government units and other appropriate agencies to determine the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the caskets. The recovered caskets, together with other materials found at the scene, have been secured as part of the investigation to establish their origin, purpose, and whether any laws or local ordinances may have been violated," he added.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said its initial investigation showed that the caskets were deliberately abandoned by masked individuals aboard white and gray vans between 2 and 4 a.m. on Aug. 7.
“These caskets contained anti-CPP-NPA and anti-China messages,” the NCRPO said, adding that the incidents appeared designed to stir public reaction.
The discovery in several areas within a few hours prompted police units to secure the sites and examine the items. The incidents also drew attention because of the political messages attached to the caskets.
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said responding officers secured the areas and inspected the caskets. Both were found to contain only crumpled papers.
The banners attached to them carried the messages, “CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY (CCP) GREEDY! SALOT” and “GREEDY SALOT.”
Another casket bore pictures of two unidentified individuals.
Police have since taken the caskets into police custody for further examination and formed a Special Investigation Team to identify those responsible, determine the motive, and trace the vehicles used.
“NCRPO is treating these incidents as deliberate acts intended to attract attention, provoke public reaction, and possibly create unnecessary alarm,” it said.
NCRPO investigators were deployed to conduct backtracking and forward tracking of closed-circuit television footage.
The police regional office also directed units across Metro Manila to strengthen vigilance and prevent similar incidents while the investigation continues.
“Public safety cannot be used as a stage for fear,” the NCRPO said.
It urged the public to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information. Residents were also told to report suspicious activity or information to the nearest police station.
“This cowardly act will not be left unpunished. NCRPO will ensure that the identity of those who are behind these acts will be uncovered and criminal cases will be filed upon completion of the investigation,” the NCRPO said.

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