15,000 cops to secure September 21 rallies – NCRPO

MANILA, Philippines —  More than 15,000 police officers will be deployed across Metro Manila for rallies expected on Sept. 21 as authorities step up security measures to prevent a repeat of last year’s disturbances, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano said yesterday. “Yes, we are preparing for that to ensure that the rallies will be peaceful,” Abrahano told reporters.

 He said the NCRPO is maintaining coordination with rally organizers even though some groups have yet to secure permits.

Police will be placed on heightened alert, with leaves suspended to ensure sufficient manpower for the rallies and traffic security.

“There will be no leaves. We need to work together and we need a pool of police officers to watch over our roads,” Abrahano said.

Police units from neighboring regions will augment NCRPO personnel, following the directive of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

The NCRPO is also coordinating with the intelligence community to monitor possible threats and groups that may attempt to disrupt the rallies.

Police will observe maximum tolerance while enforcing laws during the demonstrations, according to Abrahano.

He said authorities are monitoring groups that faced charges over violent protests last year.

Abrahano said authorities would allow protesters to exercise their right to free expression.

“We will see how we can allow them to freely express their views while at the same time ensuring that the rallies are peaceful,” he said.