Following the peaceful and orderly two-day rally in Manila with over 600,000 participants, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is now focusing on the security plan for the anticipated nationwide “Trillion Peso March” set on November 30.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. the successful and peaceful conduct of the rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila and the People Power Monument in Quezon City will serve as the blueprint for the security plan to be implemented for the upcoming mass demonstration organized by church groups, civil society organizations, and other groups.
“The successful security implementation during the recent rallies, particularly at the Quirino Grandstand, was another good experience that boosted the operational capability of the PNP in handling large assemblies,” said Nartatez.
“With the cooperation of the organizers and participants, we are confident of ensuring the safety of the people as they exercise their democratic rights,” he added.
He said all measures are based on careful planning, previous experiences, and real-time intelligence to protect both participants and the general public.
Nartatez noted that potential threats include crowd congestion, road accidents, and isolated incidents of lawless behavior like the violent protest at Ayala Bridge and Mendiola in Manila on September 21.
To mitigate these threats, the PNP has set up multiple checkpoints, rapid response teams, and coordinated closely with emergency services. (Aaron Recuenco)
