The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said no threats have been monitored so far during the third day of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Thursday, July 2.
According to a Dos Por Dos report by RH Jecelle Ricafort, NCRPO spokesperson Police Major Hazel Asilo said the situation at the venue remains peaceful as police continue to secure the area.
As of the latest monitoring, around 400 participants had gathered at the site, while approximately 200 police personnel had been deployed to maintain peace and order.
Asilo also clarified that the INC did not need to secure a rally permit since Liwasang Bonifacio is a government-designated freedom park, where public assemblies are allowed without a permit.
As of 7:44 a.m., organizers were still assembling the stage for the protest, with the program scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m.
Meanwhile, traffic authorities have implemented road closures along both the northbound and southbound lanes of Roxas Boulevard near Luneta, from Kalaw Avenue to the Manila Hotel and Katigbak Drive, to accommodate the event.
Motorists traveling along Roxas Boulevard from Kalaw Avenue are being redirected to turn left toward the Quirino Grandstand, exiting through Katigbak Drive.
Buses, vans, and other vehicles transporting rally participants have been parked along the southbound lane in front of Manila City Hall as the INC holds the third day of its protest activities.
The rally entered its third day on Thursday, July 2, after the first two days were held at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City.
The Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) has withdrawn and revoked the no-objection clearance previously issued to the INC for its protest activities, citing the significant inconvenience caused to the public along EDSA and White Plains Avenue. This prompted the transfer of the rally site to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.
Thousands of INC members have gathered since June 30 at EDSA to show support for Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who is expected to face a possible plunder complaint.
The Office of the Ombudsman earlier announced plans to file a plunder case within the week, stemming from alleged non-disclosure of ₱75 million in campaign donations.
