“SURPRISE” SHOW OF FORCE Police subdue a protester after clashes erupted during the Iglesia ni Cristo rally near the Edsa People Power Monument on Tuesday. At least four people were arrested. —GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
MANILA, Philippines — An unannounced rally by thousands of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) members supporting embattled Sen. Rodante Marcoleta crippled traffic along Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare on Tuesday, as authorities allowed the permitless protest to continue for hours before the Quezon City government approved a permit for a second day of demonstrations.
The surprise mobilization, centered near the People Power Monument along Edsa, forced the closure of major roads during the morning rush hour, stranded thousands of commuters and motorists, triggered clashes between protesters and police, and prompted questions over the enforcement of laws requiring permits for public assemblies.
Article continues after this advertisement
Late Tuesday, the Quezon City government granted organizers permission to continue the rally from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday along White Plains Avenue, hours after officials acknowledged that Tuesday’s protest had proceeded without the permit required under Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, or the Public Assembly Act.FEATURED STORIES
