The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Police forces across Metro Manila will be placed on the highest security alert status as the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) stages a massive three-day protest rally at Rizal Park in Manila starting November 16, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Wednesday.
Nearly 10,000 personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be deployed to secure the area. The contingent includes civil disturbance management units, traffic enforcers, K9 teams, medical support groups, and standby quick reaction forces.
The City of Manila will also provide perimeter support and dispatch 14 ambulances with rescue medics throughout the park’s vicinity.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the police are taking no chances, using previous large-scale rallies as reference in preparing for the event.
“In times of protest like this, the NCRPO declares full alert status. While this is a religious rally that we expect to be peaceful, our preparation will be complete, including the deployment of ambulances for medical emergencies,” Tuaño said in a press briefing at Camp Crame.
The INC rally was initially planned at the People Power Monument in Quezon City but was later moved to Rizal Park. Authorities expect more than 300,000 participants to attend.
Tuaño appealed for public understanding and cooperation, especially from those joining the gathering. “Simple acts like complying with security checks, avoiding prohibited items, and looking out for one another will help us keep the event safe,” he said.
The PNP also advised motorists and commuters to brace for traffic congestion and road adjustments around Rizal Park and nearby areas, urging the public to follow rerouting advisories once issued.