PNP vows to protect rights, maintain order in INC peace rallies

The Philippine National Police (PNP) expressed commitment to protecting the rights of participants while maintaining peace and order during the rallies of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) across the country on Monday.

In a statement, PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said the police coordinated with INC organizers, imposed traffic and crowd control measures, and deployed police personnel in strategic areas.

“The PNP is fully prepared to ensure that the National Rally for Peace will proceed safely and peacefully. We are committed to safeguarding the rights of the participants to assemble while maintaining peace and order,” he said.

“Our officers are trained to act promptly on any contingency, and we will apply the same precision and diligence that led to the smooth conduct of the Traslacion," he added.

Police personnel will be deployed at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila and other regional sites.

Other areas where INC rallies are expected to take place are:

• Albay - Sawangan Park, Lungsod ng Legazpi
• CARAGA Region - Butuan City Sports Complex
• Isabela - Isabela Sports Complex, Ilagan
•  Northern Mindanao Region- Plaza Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City
•  Palawan - Don Perdo Vicente Park, Puerto Princesa   Iloilo - New Freedom Grandstand, Lungsod ng Iloilo
•  Ilocos Sur - Quirino Stadium Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
•  Region 8 - Ormoc City -Ormoc City Stage, Ormoc City, Leyte.
• Negros Occidental -  Capitol Park and Lagoon, Bacolod City
• Butuan City - Butuan City Sports Complex
• Region 9 - Pagadian City
• Rizal Park San Pedro Square in Davao City
• South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City

MMDA assistance

With the help of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the PNP is set to manage the traffic to prevent obstructions and ensure roads remain passable.

Medical teams, quick reaction forces, and monitoring units will also be on standby to respond to emergencies, according to the PNP.

“The PNP’s mission is clear: to uphold public safety while respecting the participants' right to peaceful assembly. We are one with the INC in its call for peace and stability,” Marbil said.

“This public assembly is a symbol of peace, and we encourage everyone to honor the spirit of this gathering. Together, we can show the world that Filipinos are committed to peace while ensuring the safety and security of all,” he added.

Marbil also called on the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to authorities for immediate action.

Several members of the INC camped out in their tents, while others laid out blankets to sleep on at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday night ahead of the peace rally on Monday.

The INC announced the holding of the peace rally last December 4. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News