Manila: Some 14,900 police personnel have been deployed to secure the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, as announced by the Philippine National Police (PNP). Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Pe±ones, the newly appointed PNP director for operations, stated that around 40,000 attendees are expected at the event's activities.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pe±ones, speaking at a press briefing in Camp Crame, emphasized the deployment's focus on preventing unrest caused by "agitators." He noted that certain groups might attempt to cause chaos, which the police are closely monitoring.
Only three groups-Trillion Peso March Movement, Tindig Pilipinas, and Siklab-have been granted rally permits by the Quezon City government to gather along White Plains Avenue near the People Power Monument. Pe±ones explained that other groups were denied permits due to previous violations noted by local government units.
Pe±ones also mentioned that PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. instructed officers to practice maximum tolerance towards groups without permits, highlighting that negotiations on the ground will address situations where permits are lacking.
In a separate statement, Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin, chief of the National Capital Region Police Office, warned against the burning of effigies during the Trillion Peso March rally, citing violations of local ordinances and laws. Aberin has inspected key locations to ensure security measures are in place.
Police Regional Offices nationwide have been instructed to mobilize personnel to monitor smaller protests outside Metro Manila, ensuring comprehensive security coverage for the anniversary events.
