Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Marbil on Tuesday commended officers’ “professionalism” amid tension with rally-goers at a Bonifacio Day protest.
During a rally commemorating the birth anniversary of national hero Andres Bonifacio last November 30, protesters marching to the Mendiola Peace Arch clashed with a blockade of police.
PNP tallied eight injuries among their officers. The Manila Police District previously reported that one of their personnel experienced an eye injury and was rushed to a hospital.
READ: Bonifacio Day protest: 1 cop hurt, 1 activist arrested in Mendiola
“Our officers demonstrated professionalism and composure during the Mendiola rally, showcasing their commitment to peace and their ability to balance enforcement with restraint. This bravery and dedication deserve national recognition,” Marbil’s statement read.
“Let us not forget that behind the uniform are men and women with families and dreams, who choose to serve the nation first. As we honor Bonifacio’s bravery, let us also recognize the courage of our modern-day heroes in uniform,” he added.
Marbil also maintained that the officers “exercised maximum tolerance, prioritized safety, and prevented the situation from escalating.”
“Being a policeman is often a thankless job. Every day, our officers put their lives on the line, enduring risks and sacrifices that frequently go unnoticed,” the PNP chief said.
He added that police get an “immeasurable sense of fulfillment from serving the people and upholding peace.”
During the rally, police arrested 62-year-old Nilo Mortifero, a member of the group Bayan Muna, which claimed the senior citizen was only “on the sidelines.”
In a statement on Monday evening, the group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) estimated that over 40 of the protesters were hurt during the confrontation.
Last Monday, the PNP said it filed complaints against Mortifero, KMU chairperson Elmer Labog and other John Does for direct assault, disobedience to a person in authority, and violating the Public Assembly Act of 1985 or Batas Pambansa 880.
READ: PNP files raps vs protesters who allegedly attacked cops
Bayan Muna argued that the police officers “should be charged for hurting protesters” and “should not be commended,” slamming Mortifero’s arrest as a “gross violation of freedom of assembly and expression” in another statement on Tuesday.
“We are fighting for what is right. It is our right to protest and it is protected by the Constitution,” KMU said.