By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday called on demonstrators to show the country’s tradition of courtesy and respect toward guests as the Philippines welcomed foreign leaders for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. appealed for peaceful and responsible expression of views amid planned protests during the regional gathering.
“Filipinos are known for our hospitality and respect for our guests. We can disagree with their leaders and their policies, but let us express those differences peacefully and responsibly because our freedom to protest should never come at the expense of our values as a people. We can stand firm in our convictions without being discourteous to our visitors,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Several groups said they were preparing demonstrations tied to the summit, including protests against the visit of US President Donald Trump. Student groups also announced walkout activities, while transport group PISTON scheduled a transport strike during the summit period.
The PNP recognizes and respects the citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly, Nartatez said, urging organizers to coordinate with local authorities and comply with laws governing public gatherings to ensure public order and safety.
He cited Batas Pambansa 880, or the Public Assembly Act of 1985, which sets the rules for public demonstrations and permit requirements, subject to specific exemptions under the law.
Nartatez said he has instructed police commanders to ensure all police actions remain lawful, impartial, and professional throughout the summit.
“Our personnel must remain calm, impartial, and guided by the rule of law at all times. We are there to secure the public, not to suppress legitimate dissent,” he said, adding that this is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure a secure, orderly, and successful hosting of the ASEAN Summit.
The PNP earlier placed police units in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon under full alert from Nov. 13 to 19 as part of security preparations for the summit.
Nearly 23,000 security personnel, including more than 19,000 police officers, were deployed to secure venues, hotels, transportation routes, and other key locations during the summit.
Nartatez also ordered all concerned police commanders to maintain operational readiness for emergencies, traffic disruptions, and potential security incidents, while ensuring that any police intervention is supported by clear legal grounds.
