PNP files cases vs some Bonifacio Day protesters in Mendiola

Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has lodged complaints against some protesters in Mendiola, Manila for violating laws on Bonifacio Day.

Tensions sparked when the police blocked protesters marching towards Mendiola, the closest to Malacanang. Protesters defied authorities’ human barricade and proceeded with their rally.

PNP spokesperson PBGen Jean Fajardo said the police have filed complaints against two protesters in police custody, the Kilusang Mayo Uno leader who remains at large, and other unidentified people.

In particular, they have been accused of direct assault and violation of the Public Assembly Act before the Office of the City Prosecutor in Manila on Dec. 1.

“Wala po silang permit at nagpumilit po silang pumunta para mag-rally po sa Mendiola which alam naman po natin na dati na pong na-i-declare 'yan na 'no rally zone,'" Fajardo said in a press briefing on Monday, Dec. 2.

[Translation: They do not have a permit and they forced to rally in Mendiola, which we know has been declared as a “no rally zone.”]

“Hindi po tayo papayag na hindi po managot ang mga may sala dito sa insidenteng ito. Maliban po sa pananakit sa mga pulis natin ay ninakaw pa po 'yung isang body-worn camera ng pulis natin na hanggang ngayon, hindi pa natin nare-recover,” she said.

[Translation: We will not allow the violators to remain unaccountable for this incident. Aside from hurting our police, they robbed a body-worn camera which we haven’t recovered until now.]

Fajardo said eight police officers were injured in the incident. One of them was transported to the hospital and is under observation.

NewsWatch Plus correspondent Daniza Fernandez contributed to this report.