The right to peaceful assembly is a fundamental freedom guaranteed by the Constitution, allowing individuals and groups to express their views and promote democratic participation. As the country’s primary law enforcement agency, the Philippine National Police (PNP) remains committed to safeguarding this constitutional right while ensuring public safety, maintaining peace and order, and protecting the welfare of all Filipinos.
PNP reported that the recently concluded three-day public assembly organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), held from June 30 to July 2, 2026, was generally peaceful. The gathering began at the People Power Monument along EDSA and ended at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila at approximately 7:00 PM on July 2.
To ensure the orderly conduct of the public assembly, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla and PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., together with members of the PNP Command Group, Directorial Staff, and other key PNP officials, closely monitored the peace and order situation throughout the event from the PNP Command Center. They received real-time updates from field commanders after the assembly venue was moved from EDSA to Liwasang Bonifacio. Continuous monitoring enabled the PNP to assess developments on the ground and ensure that appropriate security measures remained in place to preserve public order and facilitate the peaceful conduct of the gathering while respecting the rights of both the participants and the general public.
From the first day of the event, PNP deployed over 5,936 police personnel and allied security forces to key locations, including the People Power Monument, EDSA Shrine, the Senate of the Philippines, Mendiola, Ayala Bridge, the U.S. Embassy, Liwasang Bonifacio, and other identified areas. Civil Disturbance Management contingents, including the Reactionary Standby Support Forces (RSSF) and Quick Reaction Forces, remained on standby throughout the operation, prepared to respond promptly to any emerging situation.
Consistent with its operational guidelines, PNP exercised maximum tolerance while carrying out its mandate to maintain peace and order. Police personnel worked in close coordination with concerned government agencies to ensure public safety, manage traffic flow, assist commuters, and facilitate the safe and orderly movement and eventual dispersal of participants. Although minor incidents were recorded on the first day of the public assembly, they were immediately addressed in accordance with existing laws and established operational procedures.
The second and third days proceeded without any significant incidents, reflecting the cooperation and discipline demonstrated by the participants. PNP expressed its sincere appreciation to the organizers, participants, motorists, commuters, and the general public for their cooperation, patience, and respect for public order, which contributed to the successful and peaceful conclusion of the activity.
PNP likewise thanked all police personnel, local government units, traffic management teams, emergency responders, and partner agencies for their dedication and vigilance. The police force remains committed to fulfill its mandate with professionalism, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law.
As the PNP continues to safeguard public safety and maintain peace and order, it likewise reaffirms its commitment to serving and protecting the constitutional rights of every Filipino, including the right to peaceful assembly.
