The Philippine National Police (PNP) has called on protest organizers to demonstrate self-restraint and support ground personnel in safeguarding public order as mass demonstrations take place across the country.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. clarified that officers stationed at rally sites and critical infrastructure have explicit orders to safeguard constitutional rights to free speech and assembly. However, he warned that law enforcement will step in if demonstrations escalate into violent acts or disrupt the safety and rights of the general public.
“Police and legal actions will always be the last resort because the priority has always been to respect the people’s rights to freedom of expression and assembly, that is the instruction to our men, and that is the assurance we commit to all our kababayan,” said PGEN Nartatez.
“What is protected by the law is the right to peaceful assembly, it does not include destroying government and public properties, and it does not include assaulting policemen,” he added.
Following instructions from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr., and guidance from DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, police units aim to balance public safety maintenance with protecting citizen rights.
A contingent of over 17,000 police officers is being mobilized nationwide as the nation observes the 54th anniversary of Martial Law alongside the anniversary of the Trillion Peso March.
Mass gatherings are planned across Manila and Quezon City. Key events include the “Bahain ng Protesta” gathering at Liwasang Bonifacio set for 3 p.m., a march toward Mendiola spearheaded by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan starting at 4:30 p.m., and an evening candle-lighting ceremony at Bantayog ng mga Bayani at 5 p.m. To ensure student safety amid expected disruptions, face-to-face classes in Manila schools have been suspended for the day.
Commanders across all sectors have been tasked with enforcing maximum tolerance, sound decision-making, and professional conduct among field officers throughout the demonstrations.
“If protesters remain peaceful, they can expect maximum tolerance and professionalism from our police officers. If individuals commit violence or criminal acts, they should expect immediate police intervention and accountability under the law,” he said.
To ensure transparency and protect both demonstrators and law enforcers, operational teams will utilize body-worn cameras and maintain complete visual documentation during deployments.
PGEN Nartatez also urged rally participants to keep transit pathways open for emergency vehicles and adhere to safety directives from ground officers.
“We urge everyone joining the September 21 rallies to keep the assemblies safe, respect emergency routes, and follow reasonable security instructions. Peaceful protest is protected, violent protest is not,” he said.