Approximately 1,000 protesters took part in demonstrations across Metro Manila on Friday as the country marked its 128th Independence Day, with police monitoring multiple rally sites and reporting a brief disturbance in Manila.

According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said eight protest actions were monitored in various locations, including Manila, Quezon City and southern parts of the National Capital Region. In total, about 920 individuals joined rallies and programs held throughout the day.

Authorities noted that some youth groups staged a protest along Kalaw Avenue in Manila, where tensions briefly flared after reports of vandalism in a road center island.

According to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) spokesperson Lt. Col. Hazel Asilo, a police civilian personnel was splashed with paint by a man who was confronted while allegedly vandalizing the area.

Police attempted to arrest the suspect, but he resisted, removed his shirt, and managed to escape, Asilo said.

The victim sustained paint on his head and shoulders but did not suffer serious injuries, authorities said.

The suspect is being identified and may face charges for violation of local ordinances, police added.

Aside from the Kalaw Avenue incident, the PNP said all other protest actions remained generally peaceful, with no further untoward incidents recorded as of Friday afternoon.

Police said they continued to monitor Independence Day-related gatherings as part of security measures across the capital region.