At least 10 police officers were injured during a gathering in front of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on Monday, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said.

In a statement dated Oct. 19, the QCPD said some of the injured officers received first aid, while others were taken to the Philippine National Police General Hospital (PNPGH) for further medical attention.

The QCPD said it recognized and respected the public’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression under the Public Assembly Act of 1985, or Batas Pambansa Blg. 880.

“Kinikilala at iginagalang ng QCPD ang karapatan ng bawat mamamayan sa mapayapang pagtitipon at pagpapahayag ng saloobin,” the statement said.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of maximum tolerance, adherence to the law and respect for human rights during police operations.

The QCPD urged rally participants to express their views peacefully and orderly while respecting the rights and safety of others.

It added that incidents resulting in injuries should be examined objectively and in accordance with existing laws and legal procedures.

Meanwhile, additional personnel were deployed at around 6:30 p.m. Monday in front of the DAR to help maintain peace and order amid the increasing number of protesters and reports of disorderly conduct.

According to the DAR, the requested encampment permit remained pending approval.

The QCPD said it continued to monitor the situation, maintain peace and order, and safeguard both protesters and the public while respecting the right to peaceful assembly.