By Jennifer P. Rendon
Call it mass action, protest rally, or, the more famous mañanita. But unauthorized mass gathering to commemorate Independence Day today, June 12, 2020 would not be allowed, according to the PNP.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Gilbert Gorero, Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 spokesperson, said Thursday that PRO-6 will celebrating the 122nd Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with due observance of public health protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day is allowed and considered as an official activity of the PNP. PRO-6 will adhere to the guidelines on 50 percent capacity of venues while on modified general community quarantine (MGCQ),” Gorero said.
But Gorero warned that unauthorized mass gatherings like protest rallies are not allowed.
“Protesters will be dispersed and advised to return home,” he said.
Police Brigadier General Rene Pamuspusan, Western Visayas police chief, ordered all PNP personnel in the region to exercise tolerance and calibrated response in confronting protesters.
Given the current challenges, “we enjoin everyone to join in the meaningful commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day,” Gorero said.
Earlier, Joint Task Force COVID Shield commander Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said a rally comprised of 10 persons at most can be allowed on June 12.
But if the number of participants goes beyond 10, Eleazar said the PNP will be asked to disperse them.
