Police were called out for surveilling the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on the grounds of the Quirino Grandstand, when they had been stationed along the outer perimeter of the area for the church’s rally on Sunday.

Officers surrounding the stage were given time to return to their posts. Policemen carrying firearms were specifically reprimanded, as the demonstration has remained peaceful and the church has no intention of provoking disorder. Moreover, they reasoned that they have the government’s permission and a permit for their activities.

“Pumunta kayo sa puwesto niyo, huwag dito, gusto naming maging payapa at gusto naming ipaabot sa gobyerno na huwag silang manggulo. Malinaw ‘yan, mga kasamang pulis? Pag hindi niyo ginawa, wala kaming kasalanan. Ayon ang gulo, hindi kami,” a member of the church said onstage.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director PMGen. Anthony Aberin addressed the issue as well, directing his personnel to proceed to the perimeters of rally grounds. He gave the police 10 minutes to follow the order.

“Attention everyone, especially those deployed PNP (Philippine National Police) personnel. Please, doon lang kayo sa perimeter, outside perimeter kasi doon kayo dapat nagbabantay. Huwag kayong humalo diyan sa loob … All police officers, nandiyan sa loob ng grounds ng Luneta. Please, lumabas kayo diyan at doon kayo sa perimeter lang. Perimeter security tayo, hindi dapat kayo diyan kasi hindi kayo kasali sa rally. Please lang, get outside!” Aberin instructed the officers.

The INC’s “Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy” runs from today, November 16, until Tuesday, November 18.