Manila: Security preparations are in place for the planned activities of various groups on Monday (Sept. 21), with the Philippine National Police (PNP) urging participants to help maintain peace and order. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. had directed police commanders to ensure that sufficient personnel and police assets are deployed in areas where demonstrations will be held. He assured protesters they can exercise their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and reminded officers to observe maximum tolerance as long as peace and order is not disrupted.

According to Philippines News Agency, last year's commemoration of the martial law declaration was marred by violence, specifically at Chino Roces (Mendiola) and Ayala bridges in Manila. Some 200 protesters involved in stone-throwing, property destruction, and burning of tires and a trailer truck were arrested, while 95 police officers were injured. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), on full alert status since Friday, has 15,746 officers on the ground based on routes affected, and traffic and public safety considerations.

NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano stated that no specific security threat has been monitored so far. He emphasized that the success of the deployment should be measured by the safe exercise of rights, maintenance of public safety, and respect for constitutional freedoms. Nartatez reiterated that personnel are instructed to observe maximum tolerance, but warned that protesters should not test the police, as they will respond to violence and hostilities. Body cameras are required to ensure transparency in police operations.