Eight police officers sustained injuries during a protest held outside the House of Representatives in Batasan Hills, Quezon City, on Friday, September 5, according to the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).
Authorities said around 300 demonstrators gathered along IBP Road at around 10 a.m. without securing a permit, as required under Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, also known as the Public Assembly Act of 1985.
The rally also caused significant traffic congestion in the area.
Police were deployed to manage the situation under the policy of maximum tolerance.
However, tensions escalated when some protesters allegedly became aggressive, resulting in minor clashes that left several officers injured.
QCPD emphasized that while the Constitution guarantees the right to free speech and peaceful assembly, such activities must remain within legal boundaries to ensure public safety.
As of this writing, authorities are investigating the incident and have pledged to hold accountable those found to have violated the law. (Hannah Nicol)
