Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla affirmed the government’s respect for peaceful protest but underscored that any form of violence or disorder will not be tolerated.

“Everybody has their right to air their grievances. Pero hindi kami papayag sa anarchy, hindi kami papayag sa violence. But the right to air your grievances is okay lang,” he said when he personally went to Forbes Park in Makati to check the situation and give instructions to the police.

Earlier, there were reports that a protest action will be held in front of the Makati subdivision at 10pm on Sunday night, which prompted the police to deploy personnel to ensure that the assembly will be peaceful.

In an interview, Remulla said the Department, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), continues to monitor the ground for any developments. “Wala eh. Nag-monitor kami buong gabi. The most we had, maybe a hundred [protesters],” he said.

He confirmed that he has spoken with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. whose guidance was clear and measured. “Sabi niya take care of the situation, ayun lang. Hindi naman siya nagpapanic, sabi lang niya, make sure no one gets hurt,” the DILG Secretary said.

He also reiterated the primary mission of the PNP in maintaining peace and order. “Civilian peacekeeping ang mission ng PNP. If may mga threats, we always take the threat seriously, ” he said.

The DILG urges the public to remain calm and continue cooperating with law enforcement to ensure safety and peace for all.

Original Article At: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/Remulla-Respect-for-Protest-Zero-Tolerance-for-Violence/NC-2025-1234