NCRPO braces for Independence Day rallies

MANILA, Philippines - National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Carmelo Valmoria directed his five district directors yesterday to prepare security measures to ensure peaceful Independence Day rallies in Metro Manila tomorrow.

Valmoria did not disclose the number of police officers to be deployed to secure Metro Manila but claimed “they are sufficient” to thwart any threat of violence.

“Like in other protest rallies, we will exercise maximum tolerance in dealing with the protesters,” Valmoria said as he warned anti-riot policemen against carrying firearms.

The protesters, spearheaded by militant groups, will gather at various points in Metro Manila before marching toward the foot of the Don Chino Roces Bridge.

The 6.12.14 Protest Coalition, which claims to have 38 non-government organizations as members, will hold its protest rally at the Andres Bonifacio shrine beside Manila City Hall.

Valmoria urged rally leaders to police their own ranks to prevent “agitators” from taking advantage of the situation.

He said there is no report from the intelligence community that the protesters would resort to violence to attain their goal.

“We will implement the same security preparations during past protest rallies. We will allow the protesters to shout their hearts out but the gathering should be peaceful as we are ready to move in should they resort to violence,” Valmoria said.