The Philippine National Police (PNP) will strictly enforce the “No Permit, No Rally” policy, according to PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
In an exclusive interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Nartatez emphasized that protest organizers are required to secure a permit and coordinate with the police before holding any demonstration, especially in Metro Manila or anywhere else in the country.
He also reminded the public that protests are not allowed at the EDSA Shrine and People Power Monument, even if a permit is secured.
“Ang EDSA shrine ay hindi freedom park,” he said.
This advisory comes in response to circulating reports about planned protests against corruption scheduled on September 13 and September 21 at the mentioned locations.
The police and protesters continue to coordinate to reach an agreement on holding rallies in designated freedom parks with permits.
Nartatez added that the country’s situation would not escalate to the level of violence seen in protests in Indonesia and Nepal.
He also mentioned that the police have already established a response plan based on the expected number of protesters, and various agencies remain on standby as part of a contingency plan in case their assistance is needed.
Meanwhile, thousands of students from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman joined the “Walkout Laban sa Korap” protest held this afternoon, September 12, where they chanted a modified version of the university's traditional cheer.
The revised lyrics called for the removal and imprisonment of those involved in corruption.
The demonstration was organized to demand accountability from those involved in the anomalous flood control projects and widespread corruption in the government.
Moreover, the protests ended peacefully without untoward incidents.
