Bayan slams cops for blocking protesters on 49th anniversary of martial law

MANILA, Philippines — Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Secretary-General Renato Reyes on Tuesday slammed the Manila police officers who prevented people from reaching Liwasang Bonifacio to commemorate martial law even after “honest efforts and dialogue” with the local government officials.

According to Reyes, groups of Sanlakas members were blocked at the Welcome Rotonda and those of the Kilusang Mayo Una were blocked on Rizal Avenue.

“Even I was threatened by police who were preventing me from crossing the street in Liwasang Bonifacio. Underpass exits are blocked by the police,” Reye said.

“This is the 49th anniversary of martial law. Naked fascism suppressing the people. Liwasang Bonifacio is a freedom park. The people merely wish to express themselves while observing the minimum health protocols. What we are seeing is a reminder that the remnants of Marcosian rule are very much alive today,” he added.

The protest was staged on the 49th anniversary of the declaration of martial law. It was meant to recall the atrocities committed under the Marcos regime and call out the efforts by some groups to revise this stage in the  history of the country.

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