PNP to deploy over 17,000 cops for 54th Martial Law anniversary

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The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Sunday that more than 17,000 police personnel will be deployed across Metro Manila for activities marking the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law.

The NCRPO initially said that more than 15,000 police officers would be deployed for activities expected on Monday.

“As of 12 noon, we will deploy around 17,085 personnel, including our CDM contingents and contingents from various neighboring regions,” NCRPO spokesperson P/Lt. Col. Hazel Asilo said in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB.

Based on the latest assessment by authorities, mobilizations are expected at the EDSA Shrine, People Power Monument, Mendiola and Liwasang Bonifacio, as well as near government agencies such as the Senate and the House of Representatives.

“Based on our assessment, the expected number of attendees at these gatherings is around 3,000,” Asilo said.

The NCRPO previously said that no groups had secured rally permits for the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law.

Asilo reminded groups planning to hold protests or other activities to coordinate with authorities and secure the necessary permits to allow proper preparations for traffic rerouting and security measures.

"They really need to secure a permit so that the NCRPO, together with other agencies, can immediately make preparations to ensure that other citizens will not be inconvenienced," Asilo said.

She added that as of Sunday, police had not monitored any validated threats for Monday, but monitoring would remain continuous as authorities were not ruling out possible disruptions during the protests.

Authorities reminded the public that the increased police presence across Metro Manila is part of their duty to protect participants and residents who may be affected by the activities.

"The presence of our police officers in areas where activities are expected is part of our duty to provide security and protection to all participants, residents and other citizens who may be affected,” Asilo said.

“That is why we ask for everyone's cooperation so there will be smooth coordination between protest participants and authorities,” she added.— MCG, GMA News