The Philippine National Police (PNP) has called on Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) rallyists to clear EDSA and comply with the Quezon City government’s decision to revoke the permit for the group’s scheduled assembly on Thursday, July 2.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said police would enforce the law with impartiality while continuing to prioritize dialogue, public safety, and the rights of commuters and motorists affected by the protest.
“The PNP 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 that defines our ‘Bagong PNP’ mandate,” he added.
Nartatez urged INC leaders to respect the decision of the Quezon City government and encourage their members to follow the law.
The Quezon City government withdrew the permit it had earlier issued for the INC’s planned Thursday assembly, citing severe public inconvenience and traffic congestion caused by the previous two days of gatherings.
Nartatez said the PNP’s response was in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to uphold the rule of law, maintain peace and order, ensure public safety, and minimize disruption to commuters and motorists.
He directed the National Capital Region Police Office and the Quezon City Police District to maintain sufficient deployment in Quezon City and nearby areas where gatherings may still occur.
Nartatez also ordered field commanders to prioritize dialogue and negotiation before taking enforcement action if participants proceed with the assembly despite the absence of a valid permit.
“We urge the organizers to respect the local government’s order and demonstrate their commitment to peace by vacating the rally site and helping restore order and normalcy in the area,” he said.
Nartatez said police forces, particularly in Metro Manila and nearby regions, would remain on alert as protesters were expected to move to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila to continue their activities.
He said enough personnel would be deployed at the new rally site not only to secure the activity but also to protect the rights of motorists, commuters, students, and other members of the public who may be affected.
Nartatez also appealed to protesters to be mindful of the rights of the greater public, noting that Liwasang Bonifacio is located in a busy area of Manila.