The Philippine National Police (PNP) has defended its implementation of a maximum tolerance policy during the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally along EDSA, rejecting criticisms that its response to the mass gathering was weak or overly lenient.
Speaking at a press briefing in Camp Crame, Acting PNP spokesperson PCol. Allen Rae Co said the police force took proactive measures to ensure public safety while respecting the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Co emphasized that the PNP immediately placed Metro Manila under full alert status, a measure that was later expanded nationwide to enhance police readiness and public security during the large-scale demonstration.
The PNP also deployed personnel to manage traffic congestion and minimize disruptions caused by the rally, particularly during its first day when participants gathered without an approved permit.
Addressing public criticism of the police response, Co maintained that the PNP's actions were consistent with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who instructed law enforcement authorities to exercise maximum tolerance in handling the protest.
“Hindi mo masasabi na malambot o malamya ang aming responde. What do you call this… yung deployment? Sala sa init, sala sa lamig naman. What do you want ba—yung aggressive na pulis o yung maximum tolerance?” Co said.
He explained that the objective was to maintain peace and order without unnecessarily escalating tensions, while still ensuring the safety of protesters, commuters, and law enforcement personnel.
Earlier, the PNP arrested four individuals following an incident in which seven police officers were reportedly injured during the rally. However, the suspects were later released after undergoing standard legal procedures.
Despite the nationwide full alert status, Co clarified that authorities have not identified any specific security threat linked to the demonstration, explaining that such an alert is a standard operational measure whenever major public gatherings are held.
The PNP reiterated that it remains committed to balancing public safety with the protection of citizens' constitutional rights, while continuing to monitor the situation and coordinate with organizers to ensure peaceful and orderly assemblies.
