Central Luzon cops on alert for poll-related protests

OLONGAPO CITY––Policemen in Central Luzon remained on alert for possible demonstrations or rallies of some groups protesting the turnout of the May 9 elections.

In a statement on Thursday, May 12, Brig. Gen. Matthew Baccay, director of Police Regional Office 3, said he ordered his personnel to observe maximum tolerance if some groups push through with their mass actions.

“The [Philippine National Police) respects the conduct of protest actions as we understand the sentiments of the supporters, so we hope that the protesters will also respect the rules to ensure everyone’s safety, especially that health protocols are still being implemented,” Baccay said.

He added: “We also recognize and appreciate the active participation of the Filipinos at large, paving the way for generally peaceful elections not just here in the region but the entire country as well.”

Early this week, some 100 students from various colleges in Angeles City in Pampanga marched three kilometers from the Holy Rosary Parish to Plaza Miranda to express their objections to a Marcos presidency. INQ

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