MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police is stepping up preparations for expected rallies and protest activities on September 21, as Filipinos prepare to commemorate one of the most historically significant dates in the country’s modern history: the anniversary associated with the declaration of Martial Law under former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
The heightened preparations come as authorities anticipate public gatherings and demonstrations in different parts of the country, particularly in Metro Manila. The Philippine National Police has moved to strengthen security measures while stressing the need to maintain peace and order during the planned activities.
15,000 Police Officers Expected to Secure Metro Manila
Separate recent reporting by ABS-CBN News said the National Capital Region Police Office is preparing to deploy around 15,000 police officers for the September 21 rallies.
The large-scale deployment highlights the level of preparation being undertaken by authorities as multiple groups are expected to gather and exercise their right to peaceful assembly. The rallies are also expected to draw increased public attention because September 21 carries deep historical and political significance in the Philippines.
The PNP’s preparations come against the backdrop of major demonstrations held on the same date in previous years, when September 21 served both as a commemoration of the Martial Law era and as a platform for citizens and organizations calling for accountability, democratic rights and action on various national issues.
Why September 21 Remains a Powerful Date in Philippine History
September 21 is closely associated with Proclamation No. 1081, the document through which Ferdinand Marcos Sr. placed the Philippines under Martial Law in 1972.
The date has since become a powerful symbol for groups commemorating the Martial Law period and remembering its impact on Philippine democracy, civil liberties and human rights.
It is also important to distinguish between the date carried on Proclamation No. 1081 and the public announcement of Martial Law, which was broadcast later. Despite historical debate and discussion surrounding the timeline, September 21 has remained the principal symbolic date for annual commemorations and demonstrations.
PNP Faces Pressure to Keep Rallies Peaceful
Police preparations for this year’s anniversary come after September 21 demonstrations in 2025 drew massive crowds and, in some areas, resulted in confrontations and injuries.
Previous reports documented large anti-corruption demonstrations that coincided with the Martial Law anniversary, with rallies taking place in Metro Manila and other parts of the country. Police and protesters later gave differing accounts regarding clashes that occurred during some of those demonstrations.
That history is likely to place additional pressure on law enforcement this year to prevent violence while respecting the constitutional right of Filipinos to peacefully assemble and express their views.
Recent reporting by Manila Bulletin also indicated that the PNP has emphasized restraint in handling protests as it prepares for the September 21 activities.
More Than Just a Security Operation
For the police, September 21 represents a major security challenge.
For protesters and civic groups, however, the date carries a much deeper meaning.
The anniversary has historically brought together students, activists, religious groups, civil society organizations and ordinary citizens with different political views but a shared interest in democratic participation and public accountability.
In 2025, organizers of major September 21 demonstrations included various civil society, religious and student groups, demonstrating the broad range of sectors that can be drawn to activities held on the Martial Law anniversary.
All Eyes on September 21
With thousands of police personnel expected to be deployed in Metro Manila and public gatherings anticipated in other areas, authorities are now under pressure to ensure that the commemorations and rallies remain orderly and peaceful.
The challenge will be significant: managing potentially large crowds, maintaining traffic flow, preventing violence and protecting both demonstrators and the general public.
As September 21 approaches, all eyes will be on the streets of Metro Manila and other parts of the Philippines.
The question now is not only how large this year’s rallies will become—but whether authorities and demonstrators can ensure that a day rooted in one of the country’s most consequential chapters in history will remain peaceful.
September 21 is coming. The police are preparing.
And once again, the anniversary of Martial Law is expected to bring the nation’s past—and its present political tensions—back into sharp focus.
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