Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. acknowledged the recent court decision acquitting six youths arrested during the 2024 labor rally in Manila.
Nartatez stressed that the PNP respects the judiciary’s decision and has taken note of concerns about how the arrests were carried out.
He said the PNP views the acquittal not as a setback but as a critical learning point that requires immediate operational review.
“Although there were operational challenges, our officers acted based on the information available at the time. This incident reminds us that we must always be careful and follow the correct process in all our operations,” he said.
The Metropolitan Trial Court of Manila recently acquitted the six youths arrested during the Labor Day rally on May 1, 2024, along T.M. Kalaw Street in Manila. The group was advocating for regular employment and a national living wage.
Following the decision, Nartatez ordered an urgent and comprehensive review of the Standard Operating Procedures for managing rallies and public assemblies.
The review will focus on strengthening training for field personnel, clarifying rules of engagement, and implementing institutional reforms to prevent similar incidents.
Nartatez reiterated that the PNP remains committed to upholding every Filipino’s constitutional right to peacefully assemble and express their views.
“We have the dual responsibility of protecting protesters and securing the communities they march through. This acquittal guides us in reviewing our procedures and ensuring that all future police actions comply fully with the law. We remain committed to accountability and transparency in our operations,” he said.
