The Philippine National Police (PNP) will continue enforcing its “no permit, no rally” policy for upcoming protest actions in the following days, according to Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
In an interview, Nartatez stressed that organizers of rallies across Metro Manila must secure the necessary permits before they are allowed to hold public demonstrations.
He also reminded protesters that the EDSA People Power Monument and the EDSA Shrine are not designated “freedom parks,” and therefore cannot be used as protest venues.
According to Nartatez, rallyists are expected to be aware of these long-standing regulations and are urged to abide by them, especially those who have been staging protests for years.
For groups unable to obtain permits, Nartatez appealed for them to refrain from pushing through with their activities. Still, he assured that the police force is ready and will continue to observe maximum tolerance toward groups that may proceed without the required documents.
At present, police units are on standby for the scheduled mass protest at Luneta on Sunday, September 21, organized by progressive groups to denounce corruption.
