In assemblies where emotions run high and voices grow louder, maximum tolerance anchored on preparedness and discipline becomes the shield that fosters harmony between the community and law enforcement.
Ahead of the much anticipated “Trillion Peso March” in commemoration of the 53rd Anniversary of the Declaration of Martial Law on September 21, 2025, the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public of its readiness to uphold the constitutional right to peaceful assembly while ensuring public safety and order. The march was expected to draw thousands of Filipinos to express their grievances against corruption and issues surrounding flood control projects in the country.
From crowd management and traffic rerouting to medical and emergency response preparedness, PNP laid out a proactive whole-of-force approach under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., reflecting its commitment to provide a safe environment where every participant could join without fear or disruption.
Recognizing both the scale of the event and its potential impact on national security, the organization, under the leadership of Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Acting PNP Chief, had mobilized resources, strengthened coordination with various government agencies, and implemented comprehensive security and traffic management plans. As early as 5:00 PM on September 19, more than 50,000 PNP uniformed personnel were strategically deployed nationwide to ensure a smooth simultaneous conduct of the anti-corruption protest rally. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) deployed its full force, while all Police Regional Offices (PROs) and Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) remained full alert for immediate support if necessary.
Prior to the event, PNP had already called on the public to cooperate with authorities and follow the established rules while exercising their democratic rights to expression. “Ginagawa natin ito upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng publiko at mapangalagaan ang karapatan sa mapayapang pagtitipon. Ang kapayapaan at seguridad ng lahat ang aming pangunahing prayoridad,” PLtGen Nartatez said, noting the core mandate of the police force to protect lives, maintain peace and order, and ensure public safety during the mass gatherings.
On September 20, the PNP Top Cop conducted on-the-ground inspections to key areas in Metro Manila to oversee the final security arrangements for the rally. His first stop was at the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) headquarters, where he met with the officials to review the traffic management plans, aimed at minimizing disruptions as thousands of rallyists were expected to join.
PLtGen Nartatez then proceeded to the DILG Unified 911 System Office, which served as the PNP’s central command and signal center for the event. The unified emergency hotline connects police, fire, and medical responders, enabling real-time coordination with field units to ensure a swift responses when needed. From there, he went to Manila Police District Station 5 and proceeded to Mendiola to meet the PNP personnel on the ground, reinforcing the directive for maximum readiness and public safety. He also conducted an inspection at the Legarda LRT Station where he boarded a train to personally check the commuters’ safety during the rally, and concluded his inspection at the People Power Monument.
“We are 100% ready, fully committed to balancing security with citizens’ rights. Our personnel are prepared to respond quickly, ensuring that everyone can exercise their right to assemble peacefully without compromising public safety,” PLtGen Nartatez said, reflecting on his inspections ahead of the gathering.
On September 21, NCRPO reported an estimated 12,200 participants across monitored sites, with security and medical teams on standby to assist the public. Through proactive efforts, inter-agency collaborations, and deployment resources, the activity was generally peaceful.
The Acting PNP Chief lauded the professionalism and discipline of all personnel who rendered their service on the ground with utmost maximum tolerance. Despite the unruly and violent actions of some participants that caused bruises and injuries to 129 PNP personnel, the officers remained calm and committed to their duty.
“Nanindigan ang ating mga pulis na may disiplina at malasakit sa kabila ng paulit-ulit na pang-uudyok. Ang kanilang tapang ay patunay ng ating panata na protektahan ang publiko at ipagtanggol ang mga kalayaang ginagarantiyahan ng ating Saligang Batas. Sa huli, higit sa bilang ng mga nasaktan, naisakatuparan ng inyong PNP ang misyon—ang mapanatili ang kapayapaan at seguridad para sa lahat,” said PLtGen Nartatez.
On September 22, PLtGen Nartatez visited the PNP personnel hospitalized at the PNP General Hospital after sustaining injuries while securing public safety during the rally. Notably, Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Hon. Juanito Victor “Jonvic” C. Remulla also checked on the injured personnel, together with the PNP Top Cop the following day. Both expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the courage and unwavering dedication to public service shown by the injured personnel, and extended their full support for their treatment and recovery.
Overall, PNP’s efforts and sacrifices before, during, and after the “Trillion Peso March” underscored its strong commitment to duty, setting aside their personal comfort and braving uncertainties to ensure safe and orderly conduct of assemblies. Even in the face of heated situations, their adherence to maximum tolerance embodied the essence of true public service, reaffirming the PNP’s pledge to serve with honor and dedication for the greater good of the Filipino people.
