Manila: At least 95 police personnel were injured during Sunday’s protests near Malaca±ang, as reported by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday. The department emphasized that law enforcement officers bore the brunt of the clashes while adhering to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for maximum tolerance.

According to Philippines News Agency, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the President monitored the situation closely from within a secure facility at the Malaca±ang compound. He noted that President Marcos explicitly instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to exercise restraint when dealing with the demonstrators.

The protests turned violent when participants set fire to tires on a container van used as a barricade at Ayala Bridge. The situation escalated further in Mendiola, where masked individuals threw rocks, bottles, and Molotov cocktails. Remulla explained that the police only pushed back when Molotov cocktails were thrown, as they posed a deadly threat.

Remulla highlighted that the police did not carry firearms, discharge weapons, or use teargas during the unrest, acting strictly in accordance with the law and instructions given. A total of 216 individuals were arrested, comprising 127 adults and 89 minors. Among the minors, 65 were classified as children in conflict with the law, while 24 were identified as children at risk.

Remulla reported no serious injuries among the protesters requiring hospitalization, stating that the police sustained more injuries. He described the challenges faced by the police, who were attacked with water from canals, hollow blocks, and Molotov cocktails.

Authorities also revealed that some detained minors claimed they intended to burn Malaca±ang, with these statements to be verified with assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The arrested individuals are currently being processed at the Manila Police District station.

Remulla expressed regret that the actions of a small violent group overshadowed the efforts of tens of thousands who participated in nationwide rallies to voice grievances against corruption. Senator Francis Pangilinan commended the security forces for maintaining order and expressed hope for the recovery of those injured. He urged authorities to uphold the rule of law, implement maximum tolerance, and protect the rights and dignity of all Filipinos.