Anti-terror bill rallyists arrested in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Protesters calling for the junking of the anti-terror bill were arrested along Morayta Street in Manila on Friday morning, theManila Police District said.

(Photo from Joseph Cuevas)

“Yes. Papunta palang sila sa General Assignment Section ng MPD,” MPD chief Brig. Gen. Rolly Miranda told reporters in a text message when asked about the arrest of a group of protesters in Manila.

(The suspects and police are on their way to the General Assignment Section of the MPD)

In a separate text message, Capt. Arnold Echalar, MPD General Assignment Section chief, said the arrested rallyists will face complaints of non-cooperation, illegal assembly and resistance and disobedience to a person in authority.

Echalar also confirmed that the rallyists resisted arrest.

In a tweet, Gabriela Youth condemned the arrest of the rallyists, who were carrying placards and rainbow flags while protesting against the controversial anti-terror bill.

The women’s group said the protest was part of a Pride March, which is a celebration for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual community every month of June.

ALERT:

Habang naglulunsad ng kilos-protesta, ang mga lumahok sa pagkilos ngayong Pride March, kasama ang Bahaghari ay marahas na dinisperse ng kapulisan. Kasalukuyang hinohold ang sasakyan ng mga nagprotesta ngayon sa Mendiola. pic.twitter.com/umy02ipkzn

— Gabriela Youth (@gabrielayouthph) June 26, 2020

gsg