“Such violent acts are no longer protected expressions of dissent but outright violations of law”
THE chaos that erupted in Mendiola on Sept. 21 revealed what I believe is a twisted agenda of paid anarchists, not the genuine voice of the people.
What was meant to be a peaceful rally was hijacked by masked agitators who threw rocks, bottles, and even incendiary devices at police. Dozens of officers were injured and property destroyed.
These weren’t acts of protest but deliberate crimes. These are not reformers but hired agitators. Their real purpose is not justice, but to bring down a sitting President. And yesterday, their plans went up in smoke.
I strongly condemn these attacks. Such violent acts are no longer protected expressions of dissent but outright violations of law. Under the Revised Penal Code, what they did already falls under sedition – a crime against public order and the Republic itself. Those responsible must be held criminally liable.
The police sacrifice for our safety. I want to praise the Philippine National Police and intelligence units for stopping what I can only describe as an attempted revolt before it could spiral into something far worse.
Our officers, many of whom were hurt, still exercised incredible restraint. The law enforcers stood firm for democracy, while these anarchists only revealed their true colors – hatred and chaos.
The anarchists have been unmasked. The news coverage laid bare the difference between legitimate dissent and orchestrated disorder. I also noted that even some political figures who had been misled into joining the march were left embarrassed after being duped into associating with lawless elements.
My own volunteer groups were also attacked. Several of my coalition’s volunteers and marshals were physically harmed and had materials vandalized by elements believed to belong to opposing camps.
I want to be clear: the injured will not be ignored. We are working closely with law enforcement and our intelligence partners to identify those who attacked our people. They will be held to account through the full force of the law – not by vigilante justice, but by proper criminal proceedings.
In the end, I want to remind the public the fight against corruption continues, but it must always be through lawful and democratic means.
I issue this firm declaration of support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the administration’s campaign against corruption.
We stand solidly behind President Marcos in his crusade for good governance. The people’s call is for justice, transparency, and reform – and this government is answering that call.
We demand accountability, yes. But we will never allow paid anarchists to hijack the people’s cause. Justice will prevail, and anarchy will never rule this nation.
