PNP on full alert amid the surprise rally organized by member of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC). Photo courtesy of Joan Bondoc/PNA.
The Philippine National Police said Tuesday it would use available legal means to end the rally reportedly staged without a permit by Iglesia ni Cristo members at the People Power Monument along Edsa.
PNP public information chief Col. Allen Co said the protest could not continue indefinitely, although police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government were still assessing how much time would be given to the demonstrators.
Co said authorities were studying all options to address the disruption while ensuring that any enforcement action along the roads would be done within legal bounds.
The rally began early Tuesday morning near the People Power Monument.
Police estimated that about 10,000 people joined the gathering.
The protest caused road closures along both lanes of Edsa and White Plains Avenue during the morning rush hour.
Tensions also broke out between protesters and law enforcers, prompting National Capital Region Police Office director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin to negotiate with organizers to end the rally.
Co apologized for the disruption and said the PNP was not blaming anyone. Asked about reports that Aberin is an INC member, Co said the police official would carry out his duties professionally and that his religious affiliation would not affect his work as NCRPO director.