Manila: The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced on Monday that a total of 2,250 police officers will be deployed to ensure security during the anticipated 'Black Friday' protests across Metro Manila on September 12, which are being organized in response to concerns over questionable flood control projects.
According to Philippines News Agency, NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo revealed during a press briefing at Camp Crame that reports have been received about planned rallies in various locations including Mendiola, near the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Manila, along EDSA, and at the Senate and the House of Representatives. Asilo noted that while they are preparing for four activities, the specific locations of the protests remain uncertain, and no permits have been issued yet. She also emphasized that maximum tolerance would be observed and reminded protesters to avoid causing inconvenience.
In a related development, Col. Randy Glenn Silvio, officer-in-charge of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), stated that Police Station 6 is preparing potential complaints for alarm and scandal and violations of Batas Pambansa 880, or the Public Assembly Act of 1985, against members of progressive organizations. This follows a protest outside the House of Representatives last week that resulted in injuries to seven to eight police officers. Silvio mentioned that one Police Non-Commissioned Officer and the battalion commander sustained head injuries, while others suffered minor injuries.
Meanwhile, in Pasig, police chief Col. Hendrix Mangaldan reported that they have not yet received a formal request for security personnel from controversial contractors Pacifico 'Curlee' and Cezarah Rowena 'Sarah' Discaya. Activists recently protested outside their company, St. Gerrard Construction, alleging irregularities in flood-control projects. Mangaldan assured the public of a standby force to manage any eventualities and mentioned that the Eastern Police District is coordinating with the Discayas for filing a formal complaint. The protesters might face charges of malicious mischief and vandalism.
