Tension high as cops block protesters’ march to Edsa Shrine

Video by Noy Morcoso III/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines – Amid the celebration of the 29th anniversary of the People Power 1, tension went high between police officers and some 1,500 activists along Edsa Wednesday.

Protesters mostly from Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Anakpawis, Gabriela, Kilusang Mayo Uno lashed at policemen after being barred from entering the historical highway near Camp Crame.

In an interview with INQUIRER.net, Bayan Secretary General Renato Reyes said there had been coordination with the police before they marched to Edsa.

“Kahapon nakipag-negotiate kami sa police. Ang sabi pa ni General Valeroso, ‘hindi na siguro kailangan ng permit pa kasi nationwide celebration naman ito’ tapos ngayon magbabago sila ng tono?” Reyes said.

He said the militant groups even laid out to the police their plans for their February 25 protest.

Reyes said Valeroso was the officer assigned at the National Capital Region Police Office.

But according to NCRPO head Police Director Carmelo Valmoria, the rallyists were not given the go-signal to hold a protest at the Edsa Shrine.

“The Church does not want to ruin the solemnity of the event,” Valmoria said.

Protest actions started after a Mass in commemoration of the People Power was held at The Shrine of Mary Queen of Peace at the corner of Edsa and Ortigas Avenue.
President Benigno Aquino III, Cabinet members and top police and military officials led the Edsa rites.

The rallyists are denouncing the Aquino administration for mishandling the police-led Mamasapano operation that claimed the lives of 44 Special Action Force troopers.

“Sabi ko nga sa mga police, we came in here hindi kayo ang kaaway namin. Pinaglalaban namin katotohanan pero ganito ginagawa niyo sa amin,” he lamented.

Protesters were also heard chanting: “Noynoy resign, Mamasapano mastermind!”

“Kinalimutan nila yung totoong people power eh. Ang gusto lang nila Aquino power,” Reyes added.