NCRPO on full alert for September 21 protests

MANILA, Philippines — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will go on full alert starting today in anticipation of protests in Metro Manila for the 54th commemoration of the declaration of martial law on Sept. 21.

NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo said police would be placed on full alert starting at 12:01 a.m. today. Deployment will begin at 11 p.m. on Saturday.

Police will focus on key areas, including the Commission on Human Rights and EDSA Shrine in Quezon City, Mendiola, the US embassy and Rizal Park in Manila, as well as identified rally sites, major roads, transport terminals and other vital installations.

Philippine National Police spokesman Col. Allen Rae Co said 15,746 PNP personnel are part of the security contingent.

Asilo said the NCRPO has yet to identify any security threats, but continues to validate information on possible attempts to bring weapons into rally areas, the entry of people who may cause disturbances, changes in routes or venues and other activities that could lead to violence.

The NCRPO is also coordinating with organizers and marshals on rally sites, routes, schedules and expected attendance while urging them to maintain peaceful assemblies and coordinate with police liaison officers in case of problems or provocations.

The security preparations are based partly on the violence that marred the Sept. 21, 2025 rallies, when clashes broke out at Ayala Bridge and Mendiola.

Police reported arrests and injuries after protesters threw rocks and burned tires and a trailer truck.

Asilo said the NCRPO has since strengthened its ground assessments, crowd management measures and contingency plans, with potential flashpoints identified ahead of the demonstrations.

Police will observe maximum tolerance and follow operational procedures and human rights standards. Intervention will be undertaken only in cases of actual violence, assault, property damage or an immediate threat to safety, she said.

The NCRPO also reminded protesters to comply with local ordinances and avoid bringing weapons, large bags and items that could be used to harm others.

Authorities particularly cautioned protesters against wearing balaclavas or other masks that conceal identity.

Palace not imposing

Malacañang clarified that its call to make the Sept. 21 protests peaceful is not an imposition.

“We are not dictating. Do they want to be violent? Do they want to hold violent rallies? That is not allowed under the law, ” Palace press officer Claire Castro said.

Militant groups, led by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), announced they would stage a rally in Liwasang Bonifacio on Monday before proceeding to Mendiola.

The group criticized President Marcos for resorting to fearmongering instead of addressing the issues they are raising.

Bayan secretary general Raymond Palatino chided Castro for “gaslighting” activists by telling them to hold their rallies peacefully.

Roads closed

The Manila Police District (MPD) yesterday announced road closures for Sept. 21 rallies.

Mendiola, Liwasang Bonifacio and Ayala Bridge will be closed starting at 12:01 a.m. of Sept. 21, the MPD said in an advisory.

Motorists intending to pass Mendiola can take alternative routes through Nicanor Reyes, Figueras and San Rafael streets.

Jones Bridge and P. Burgos Avenue southbound lane can be used as alternative roads for motorists traversing Liwasang Bonifacio.

Vehicles passing through Ayala Bridge can instead take Ayala Boulevard and San Marcelino. — Alexis Romero, Andrew Ronquillo