12 hurt in anti-SONA rally

MANILA, Philippines - At least 12 people, including eight policemen, were injured after militants tried to get past the barricade on Commonwealth Avenue and reach the Batasang Pambansa a few hours before President Aquino was set to deliver his State of the Nation Address (SONA) yesterday.

Anti-riot police had to use water cannon on protesters who overturned the concrete barriers and shipping containers set up to prevent them from marching toward the Batasan complex at past 1 p.m.

Violence ensued as protesters started throwing rocks and other materials at the police officers. Reports said some police officers even lost their protective vests to the militants.

Among the policemen who were injured were Police Officer 2 Pacinio Jesrald and Police Officers 1 Paran Engenber, Claro Frank and Rommel Orquita.

The lawmen were able to pacify the situation after their leaders of the different groups arrived and tried to negotiate with the police.

The militants later resolved to continue their program, including the burning of an effigy of Aquino, along Commonwealth Avenue near the Ever Gotesco mall.

Meanwhile, protester Eric Lopez, 36, was arrested before 2 p.m. when he reportedly tried to enter the area where rallyists were prohibited.