PNP lenient on ‘illegal’ protesters but warns of charges, arrest
The Philippine National Police (PNP) warned that the protesters who staged rallies slamming the country’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit may face arrests and charges after they illegally occupied areas near Roxas Boulevard Thursday.
At a press briefing held at the International Media Center, PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor said that charges may be filed especially if policemen were injured despite exercising maximum tolerance on the protesters.
Mayor said that the protesters’ action at Gil Puyat Ave. in Pasay City could be considered illegal because no rally permit was issued to them by the local government.
“If it is needed then we can [file charges against protesters],” Mayor said.
READ: At least 28 protesters injured as police, militants clash in Buendia
He said that despite their “illegal” occupation, the police said that they have allowed the dissenters to air their grievances against the government.
“If we strictly speak, they are not allowed in cities where permits were not issued. In fact they were given leniency in this. They are not allowed in the vicinity of the Apec event: Makati, Madaluyong, Pasay, Manila. So therefore, their presence here is illegal,” Mayor added.
In the end, the PNP spokesperson appealed that the protesters should not resort to violence.
“The Philippine National Police recognizes the [freedom of] expression of every individual. That is the reason why we have given them the chance to do that. Again, we appeal to them, expressing their sentiments must not be violent. You can do some other things as long as you’re not violent,” he said.
A violent clash broke out Thursday morning as anti-riot cops pushed back about 1,000 protesters who were trying to breach police barricades leading to Roxas Boulevard.
READ: Anti-Apec activists mount protests all over Metro
Militant groups claim that dozens from their ranks have been injured in the scuffle which ensued.
The protesters came from Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila and then marched to Gil Puyat Ave. in Pasay City.
The protests were staged during the last day of the Apec meet in the country. CDG
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