Authorities have placed Mendiola and other key areas of Manila under heightened security ahead of the Nov. 30 anti-corruption protest, the second major demonstration of the year.
On Saturday, Nov. 29, police installed razor wire barricades, concrete barriers, and container vans along Solano Street at the corner of Ayala Boulevard to restrict access near Malacañang.
Manila Police District (MPD) spokesman Maj. Philipp Ines said the measures aim to manage crowd movement, protect government facilities, and ensure order during the rally.
At least 16,000 police officers will be deployed, including 12,000 from the MPD and reinforcements from Regions 1, 3, 4A, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, plus 4,000 personnel from the NCRPO.
Critical areas such as Mendiola, the US Embassy, and the vicinity of Malacañang have been identified as high-risk zones.
Protesters—expected to include labor groups, civic organizations, and civil society groups—were reminded to keep the rally peaceful. Weapons, firecrackers, bladed objects, alcohol, and masks (except for health reasons) are strictly prohibited.
Traffic rerouting schemes have yet to be finalized, but motorists are advised to anticipate heavy congestion around Mendiola, Ayala Boulevard, and nearby streets.
The Nov. 30 rally will be the second major anti-corruption demonstration of the year, drawing groups calling for transparency, accountability, and reforms within the government. (Diann Calucin)
