The Philippine National Police said Saturday it has placed its forces on full alert ahead of three days of protests, deploying personnel across Metro Manila and tapping reinforcements from other regions to ensure public safety.
PNP acting chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said units have been fully mobilized since Thursday evening, with officers strategically positioned in key areas and backed by nationwide contingents.
‘Our personnel are ready to respond to any situation. We respect the public’s right to peaceful assembly and are committed to keeping the gatherings safe, orderly, and secure,’ Nartatez said.
The rallies, include the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) gathering at Rizal Park in Manila and the United People’s Initiative (UPI), a group of retired military officers, at the EDSA Shrine and People Power Monument in Quezon City.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will deploy 16,433 personnel to maintain peace and order during the simultaneous events. Maj. Hazel Asilo, NCRPO spokesperson, said 8,641 officers will come from the NCRPO itself, with an additional 7,792 from other regional police offices providing reinforcement.
Police said a comprehensive security plan has been activated covering ground operations, traffic management, intelligence monitoring, emergency response, and maritime patrols. Authorities also urged commuters, residents, and participants to follow safety reminders and cooperate with officers on the ground.
Earlier, the PNP has pledged to exercise ‘maximum tolerance’ while ensuring that public safety remains its top priority throughout the three-day assemblies.