Seven police officers sustained injuries during a confrontation with protesters at a Labor Day rally along Kalaw Avenue in Ermita, Manila, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The injured personnel, all part of Civil Disturbance Management units, were brought to the PNP General Hospital. One officer remains under observation pending CT scan results, while the others are recovering from minor injuries.
Police said the officers were observing maximum tolerance when a group of demonstrators allegedly rushed the police line, leading to physical altercations and the reported loss of some personal belongings.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the officers sustained abrasions and at least one case of hematoma. He added that two individuals have been identified and may face charges.
Despite the incident in Manila, authorities said Labor Day activities nationwide were largely peaceful.
PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. condemned the violence, reiterating that while police are instructed to exercise restraint during public assemblies, attacks against law enforcers will not be tolerated.
He stressed that while the right to protest is respected, acts involving violence, intimidation, or theft will be met with appropriate legal action.