MANILA — Malacañang assured protesters that the government will not suppress the massive demonstrations expected on September 21, even as authorities intensify security preparations to prevent a repeat of the violence that marred last year’s rallies.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recognizes the public’s right to peacefully assemble and express grievances as various groups prepare to take to the streets on the anniversary of the declaration of martial law in 1972.
“Hindi po ito hinahadlangan ng Pangulo ang kanilang pag-ga-gather, ang kanilang freedom of expression ay hindi po ito hahadlangan kailanman ng Pangulo,” Castro said in an interview with GMA News’ Unang Balita.
The Palace, however, appealed to demonstrators to keep the protests peaceful and avoid violence, particularly following clashes during the September 21 demonstrations last year.
“Ang nais lang po sana natin, ang ating dasal ay huwag maging marahas. At kung may mga nangyari noong nakaraang taon, sana hindi po mangyari at hindi naman po sila hinahadlangan ng pamahalaan sa kanilang mga gagawing protesta,” Castro added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up preparations for the demonstrations, with more than 15,700 police personnel set for deployment across Metro Manila.
The National Capital Region Police Office will go on full alert beginning September 19, while additional police personnel from nearby regions may be mobilized depending on the situation.
Police assigned to protest areas will not carry firearms, while crowd dispersal management personnel will be equipped with protective gear, including helmets, shields and batons. Body-worn cameras will also be used during security operations.
Authorities have likewise committed to exercising maximum tolerance in dealing with protesters.
Castro said the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the PNP were coordinating security preparations to ensure that the demonstrations remain peaceful and orderly.
The September 21 demonstrations coincide with the anniversary of the 1972 declaration of martial law and are expected to draw groups raising various political and social issues.
Malacañang maintained that the administration would not prevent the gatherings as long as participants exercise their right to freedom of expression peacefully./PN
