Violent protest rallies must stop
FREEDOM of expression, as enshrined in the Constitution really ensure that all of us Filipinos will have the fundamental rights to freely express our ideas and opinions, including thru public protests and demonstrations.
However, the right to peaceful assembly, I would say is really being taken advantage of by violent protesters and just like the others, I am calling for restrictions when it already violate the rights of others, or really advocates hatred or incites discrimination or violence.
Another thing is that some of the protesters are making it appear thru social media that food packs and money will be given to the people if they would troop to rally sites like the EDSA Shrine. This empty promise must really be investigated and stopped as they are fooling the people.
In maintaining that such freedom is not absolute, I would like to cite the violent protest rallies that marred the observance of Bonifacio Day last Saturday, with seven of our policemen hurt while fully observing maximum tolerance in dealing with the demonstrators.
PNP chief General Rommel Marbil said it all when he made it clear that ‘perilous work won’t deter us’ as he recognized the injured policemen and added that they would remain committed to protecting the people and upholding peace and order.
The top cop also called for greater recognition of the bravery and dedication of the nation’s police officers, emphasizing their selfless service despite the inherent dangers of their jobs.
He cited the recent Bonifacio Day violence near Chino Roces Bridge (formerly Mendiola) in Manila where rallyists clashed with law enforcement personnel as a stark reminder of the risks officers face while fulfilling their duty to maintain public safety.
“Being a policeman is often a thankless job. Every day, our officers put their lives on the line, enduring risks and sacrifices that frequently go unnoticed. Yet, despite these challenges, the sense of fulfillment derived from serving the people and upholding peace is immeasurable. This is the essence of public service that every police officer embraces,” Gen. Marbil said.
The Mendiola incident saw rallyists verbally and physically confronting police officers deployed to maintain order during the national holiday. Despite provocations, the policemen exercised maximum tolerance, prioritizing safety and preventing the situation from escalating.
Viral videos since then have circulated on social media showing rallyists attacking a police officer during the commotion. Police Lieutenant Colonel Wilfredo Fabros suffered lumbar injuries while six of his men were likewise hurt, one of them seriously as a result of the incident.
“Our officers demonstrated professionalism and composure during the Mendiola rally, showcasing their commitment to peace and their ability to balance enforcement with restraint. This bravery and dedication deserve national recognition,” Gen. Marbil said.
He also reaffirmed his support for all police officers, assuring them of the necessary training, resources, and moral support to carry out their duties effectively. However, he also urged the public to recognize and respect the sacrifices made by the police force.
“Let us not forget that behind the uniform are men and women with families and dreams, who choose to serve the nation first. As we honor Bonifacio’s bravery, let us also recognize the courage of our modern-day heroes in uniform,” he said.
NCRPO director Brigadier Gen. Anthony Aberin maintained that his men fully observed maximum tolerance in dealing with the unruly anti-government protesters who tried to march towards Malacañang Palace during the Gat Andres Bonifacio Day.
The ground commander, Lt. Col. Fabros was trying to pacify the demonstrators when he was pulled by some of the protesters causing him to lose his balance and hit a gutter. The six other members of the NCRPO and Manila Police District Civil Disturbance Management company, all non-commissioned officers suffered non-life threatening injuries and were sent home after treatment. One of them identified as Patrolman Aljon Pascual however sustained a big eye wound and abrasions in his left face.
One of the six also lost his Body-Worn Camera to a protester who disappeared. Police arrested one of the protesters identified as 62-year old Bayan Muna member from San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan.
Complaints for direct assault and disobedience to an agent of a person in authority have been filed against some of the protesters before the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office on Sunday. The accused include a leader of the Kilusang Mayo Uno. The protesters were also charged for violation of Batas Pambansa 880 a they turned out to have no permit rally during the day.
