While vowing moderation, the Philippine National Police (PNP) asked leaders of cause-oriented groups on Sunday to police their ranks to secure a peaceful outcome of President Marcos' second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday.
PNP public relations officer Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said militant groups should do their part to keep the peace on the day of the SONA.
In a radio interview, Maranan stated that protesters should strictly adhere to the guidelines established by the Quezon City government for their rallies.
The city authorities issued a permit to militant groups to stage a rally at the intersection of Tandang Sora and Commonwealth Avenues beginning at 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.
According to Maranan, the 22,000 state security forces and force multipliers who will secure the SONA will exercise maximum tolerance.
However, he warned marchers that their patience is limited, especially if they break the law.
Maranan had previously cautioned demonstrators not to set fire to effigies because they could face penalties for violating environmental rules.
In response to Maranan's remark, Renato Reyes, president of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), stated the police have no legal or factual basis to restrict people from carrying and even burning effigies during rallies.
Reyes asserted that protesting by burning effigies or flags constituted protected free expression.
He noted that in the past, effigies were burned with great regard for public safety to avoid injuries.
In addition to the 6,123 uniformed officers of the Quezon City Police District, the Quezon City government announced it would deploy an additional 375 people from the city's Department of Public Order and Safety to assist in preserving security and public order.
Another 800 traffic enforcers will assist in controlling traffic on important thoroughfares.
In addition, 287 members of the city's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department will be on standby to give quick medical aid in the event of an emergency.
Previously, the city permitted numerous groups to hold activities during the SONA. Protesters were allowed to congregate along Commonwealth Avenue near Tandang Sora, while pro-administration organizations were allowed to gather near the Commission on Audit.
The city has advised individuals who would participate to observe all restrictions and not disrupt the area's peace and order.
Additional city buses and local government vehicles will also be deployed to give commuters more options for transit. On July 24, Malacanang canceled school and activities at government offices around Metro Manila.
Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, the Senate minority leader, encouraged President Marcos to address the Philippines' "real situation" in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
He urged that the President speak about "microeconomic issues that concern and affect the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
Pimentel mentioned rising basic goods costs, a lack of jobs, low wages, and other issues that are "truly important to the life of the average Filipino.
The senator asked the administration to back legislation requiring a wake-up call in Congress.
Marcos should also use the opportunity to discuss the government's long-term strategy for dealing with the approaching water scarcity and the El Nio weather phenomenon, Pimentel added, urging the administration to endorse suggestions to establish a Department of Waters.
The senator recommended the administration carefully consider tax reform proposals, such as taxing sugary and salty foods, which would disproportionately harm the poor.
