The Manila Police District (MPD) arrested a total of 113 individuals who instigated violence against law enforcement authorities on Sunday, September 21, during the anti-corruption rallies held by various organizations in the nation’s capital.
In a press briefing on Monday, MPD spokesperson Major Philip Ines reported that 65 of those apprehended were adults and 48 were minors. They were among rogue protesters who figured in three separate commotions that happened along Ayala Bridge, Mendiola, and Recto Avenue in Manila.
According to Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso, the city government will file criminal and civil charges against 72 identified rioters. He said they will seek reparations over serious damage inflicted on public and private properties.
“The damage done was too great… I do not think it was the rallyists. They were in their respective places in the morning and in the afternoon. With due respect to the rallyists, they are okay in Luneta, they are okay in Liwasan, they are okay in EDSA,” Domagoso told reporters in Filipino.
The mayor said he received initial reports that a former politician orchestrated the riots in cahoots with other “funders.” He also noted that some of the individuals arrested were not residents of Manila, but from other nearby cities such as Taguig, Pasay, Parañaque, Caloocan and Quezon City.
MPD chief Brigadier General Arnold Abad said the protesters turned violent by stomping, pushing, and hurling stones, barricades, glass bottles, and foul-smelling liquid substances mixed with paint at police officers.
Additionally, they damaged government property and used debris as weapons to inflict injury. Among the charges to be filed include malicious mischief, violations of the Anti-Barricade Act, and other related offenses.
Domagoso thanked law enforcement authorities for practicing high tolerance during the unruly demonstrations. He also denied reports of fatalities, but acknowledged injuries on civilians and policemen alike in the wake of the riots.
On Monday morning, Philippine National Police (PNP) Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. visited policemen who were hospitalized after sustaining injuries while keeping peace and order during yesterday’s anti-corruption rally.
Nartatez expressed his sincere gratitude and concern for their bravery and dedication. He praised their professionalism under difficult circumstances and assured them that their courage and sacrifices are truly valued by the PNP leadership.
