MANILA, Philippines — Groups planning to hold protests and other public assemblies on Sept. 21 have been reminded by the Philippine National Police to secure the necessary permits as authorities ramp up security preparations for what could be one of the biggest protest days in Metro Manila this year.
The Sept. 21 demonstrations will coincide with the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines, a date that traditionally draws various groups to rallies, commemorations and protest actions.
According to The Manila Times, the PNP reminded organizers to comply with permit requirements for public assemblies as preparations continue for the scheduled activities.
15,000 Police Officers to Be Deployed
Security preparations are already intensifying across the National Capital Region.
The National Capital Region Police Office said more than 15,000 police personnel are expected to be deployed across Metro Manila to secure the Sept. 21 rallies and maintain peace and order.
NCRPO officials said police commanders have been directed to prepare personnel and resources in areas where demonstrations are expected to take place.
The heightened security measures come as authorities seek to prevent a repeat of violence and disturbances that affected previous large-scale protest activities.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has also ordered police units to strengthen intelligence monitoring and security preparations ahead of the demonstrations.
What Does Philippine Law Say About Rally Permits?
The permit issue is governed by Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, also known as the Public Assembly Act.
Under the law, organizers generally need a written permit to hold a public assembly in a public place. Applications must include details about the organizers, purpose of the assembly, date, time, location, estimated number of participants and other relevant information.
Applications are generally required to be filed with the office of the mayor at least five working days before the planned public assembly.
However, the law also provides important exceptions.
A permit is not required for assemblies held in officially designated freedom parks. Public assemblies held on private property may also proceed with the consent of the owner or lawful possessor. Certain activities on government-owned educational campuses are likewise subject to the rules of the institution.
The law further states that local officials should issue permits unless there is clear and convincing evidence that a proposed assembly would create a clear and present danger to public order, public safety, public convenience, public morals or public health.
Police Also Required to Exercise Maximum Tolerance
While authorities are reminding organizers about permit requirements, Philippine law also places responsibilities on law enforcement agencies.
Batas Pambansa Blg. 880 requires authorities to observe “maximum tolerance” when dealing with peaceful public assemblies.
Police are generally prohibited from interfering with lawful assemblies and are tasked with helping maintain peace and order while respecting the constitutional rights of Filipinos to peacefully assemble and express their views.
The law also provides that a permitted assembly cannot simply be dispersed unless it becomes violent or serious disturbances occur under circumstances specified by law.
Security Tightens Ahead of Sept. 21
Authorities have not released a single final picture of all groups expected to participate in the Sept. 21 activities, but police preparations indicate that large gatherings are anticipated across Metro Manila.
The deployment of more than 15,000 officers underscores the scale of the security operation being prepared by the NCRPO.
For protesters and organizers, the message from authorities is clear: coordinate with local governments and law enforcement agencies, comply with applicable legal requirements and ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful.
For police, the challenge will be equally significant — maintaining security while protecting the public’s right to peaceful assembly.
As Sept. 21 approaches, all eyes will be on Metro Manila to see whether thousands of demonstrators and a massive police deployment can navigate one of the country’s most politically significant dates without major violence or disruption.
The coming days could determine just how massive the Sept. 21 mobilization will become — and whether authorities and protest organizers can keep the demonstrations peaceful from start to finish.
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