The Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) has officially withdrawn and revoked the no-objection/rally permit previously issued to the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for its protest activity, citing the significant inconvenience caused to the public by the demonstration along EDSA and White Plains Avenue.
In a memorandum dated July 1, 2026, DPOS Department Head Elmo DG. San Diego informed the rally organizers that, following a review of the prevailing circumstances, the local government decided to revoke the permit in the interest of public welfare.
The memorandum stated that the decision was prompted by the severe disruption experienced by commuters and motorists as a result of the ongoing rally.
“After judicious evaluation of the current circumstances, particularly the severe difficulties being experienced by the general public due to the conduct of the rally along EDSA and White Plains Avenue, the Department of Public Order and Safety is constrained to withdraw its No Objection/Rally Permit,” the memorandum read.
It added that the permit was “hereby withdrawn and revoked” effective July 1, 2026.
In a separate official statement, the DPOS clarified that the permit had only been issued earlier that day before it was revoked after authorities assessed the impact of the protest on the public.
The department said protecting the public interest is among the primary responsibilities of the local government, noting that the rally had caused widespread disruption to daily activities.
According to the statement, thousands of people were delayed in going to work and school, while businesses were also affected by the traffic congestion.
The city government also noted that the organizers allegedly failed to comply with their commitment to confine the gathering to White Plains Avenue, as participants also occupied portions of EDSA, worsening traffic conditions.
“Bahagi ng tungkulin ng lokal na pamahalaan ang pangalagaan ang interes ng publiko,” the DPOS said. “Libu-libo ang nahuli sa eskwela o trabaho, o sadyang hindi na nakapasok at naperwisyo ang negosyo.”
Despite the revocation, the Quezon City government emphasized that it continues to recognize and respect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
“Iginagalang natin ang kalayaan sa pagtitipon at pagpapahayag ng damdamin, ngunit hindi ito maaaring makasagabal sa kapakanan ng nakararami,” the statement concluded.
The revocation came as authorities continued to monitor the large-scale rally and implement traffic management measures to minimize its impact on commuters and residents.
