The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that the first day of the three-day nationwide rallies organized by members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on Sunday, November 16, proceeded “peacefully and without major incidents.”
In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said demonstrations held in at least eight sites across the country—including Metro Manila, Iloilo, Pampanga, and Tarlac—were “orderly” and closely monitored by both police and event marshals.
Nartatez said crowd estimates reached no fewer than 600,000 participants nationwide, with major gatherings held at the Quirino Grandstand, the People Power Monument, the EDSA Shrine, and Liwasang Bonifacio.
“We prepared for three days of activities, plus two more days for participant entry and exit. Our mission is to maintain peace and order and ensure everyone’s safety,” Nartatez said.
He added that the INC informed authorities their activities at the Quirino Grandstand would continue for the full three days. Hundreds of marshals were deployed internally to help maintain discipline among participants.
“There were no reports of violence,” Nartatez noted. “Only a few cases of dizziness or participants needing medical attention. The organizers set up small clinics, and we also activated medical evacuation plans.”
However, a minor disturbance occurred at the People Power Monument involving members of the United People’s Initiative (UPI). According to the PNP, a disagreement broke out when one faction prevented another from raising placards. Organizers themselves intervened and removed the group from the area.
“We thank the organizers for their coordination. This helped prevent the situation from escalating,” Nartatez said.
The UPI reportedly requested and received permission to hold another day of protest at the People Power Monument on Monday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. No other groups were allowed—and none applied—to hold a second day of activities at the EDSA Shrine.
The PNP said it will maintain full alert status throughout the rally period to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow in affected areas.
