Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Wednesday that a total of 15,097 police officers will be deployed to ensure security during the "Trillion Peso March" anti-corruption rallies on November 30.
According to Philippines News Agency, the deployment will include 8,805 personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and 6,292 personnel from the Special Action Force and Police Regional Offices of Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Cordillera Administrative Region. This extensive deployment includes 973 police officers stationed at the People Power Monument and 893 officers at the nearby Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) Shrine. Additional police presence will be seen in strategic locations around Malaca±ang and key government offices in Quezon City, Pasay City, and Taguig City.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o highlighted that the large deployment is intended for areas traditionally frequented during rallies, including freedom parks that do not require permits for police presence. He confirmed that rally organizers have secured necessary permits and have an understanding with local authorities to ensure the event remains peaceful and free from seditious statements.
In anticipation of potential unrest, especially after previous violent incidents during the first Trillion Peso March, specialized units such as negotiation and monitoring teams, medical teams, arresting officers, and legal teams will be on standby. Tua±o emphasized the increased number of arresting officers to focus on civil disturbance management.
Metro Manila police are currently on heightened alert, with plans to escalate to full alert status on November 28. NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo noted that full alert status requires all policemen to be on duty as part of contingency measures.
NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin stated that police deployment will be adjusted based on crowd dynamics and real-time assessments. He assured that the police presence is to protect participants, commuters, and bystanders, not to suppress the rally. Additionally, joint security planning with local agencies and intensified social media monitoring will be in effect to ensure comprehensive security coverage.
The PNP reiterated the prohibition of acts that could lead to public disorder, in accordance with Batas Pambansa 880 and the Revised Penal Code, to maintain a lawful and peaceful assembly.
