The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has raised its alert status to “red alert” amid simultaneous rallies organized by Iglesia ni Cristo, the United People's Initiative (UPI), and other groups.

“Since kahapon [Nov. 15], nai-declare na natin itong red alert status. Naka-red alert tayo since kahapon, na-declare natin ang red alert status. Heightened alert ang ating sitwasyon sa ngayon,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla confirmed to DZRH News.

According to RH Edniel Parossa's report, Padilla explained that while the Philippine National Police (PNP) is primarily tasked with maintaining peace and order during rallies, the military deemed it necessary to elevate its alert level due to ongoing Humanitarian and Disaster Response (HADR) operations following successive typhoons.

“We are pooling our resources and our troops for different eventualities,” Padilla said.

"Nais nating linawin na ang red alert ay internal para sa Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas para mas madali kaming makapag-pool ng resources at personnal. But, again, ito ay primary responsibility sa ngayon ng PNP for peace and order but nandiyan tayo, we are augmenting them. Ang Joint Task Force NCR ay nandiyan na rin sa area," she added.

Rallies are scheduled today at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila and at the People Power Monument in Quezon City.

Crowds began gathering early Sunday at the Quirino Grandstand as members of INC and supporters arrived ahead of the group’s three-day "Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy," which is set to officially start at 4:00 p.m.

The heightened alert comes amid a government investigation into alleged anomalies in flood control projects, following directives issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address in July.

As of 2:00 p.m., the number of participants in the first day of the three-day peace rally has reached 50,000, according to the Manila Police District.