The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has raised operational readiness ahead of the 40th EDSA People Power Revolution commemoration and the 3rd Trillion Peso March, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin said Sunday.
Aberin said calibrated security measures are in place to ensure the safe and orderly conduct of activities across Metro Manila.
Drawing from generally peaceful observances over the past three years, the NCRPO refined its plans to focus on prevention, police visibility, and rapid response.
The NCRPO also said it will implement a “no permit, no rally” policy on February 25 as various groups prepare separate protest actions.
“We will implement a ‘no permit, no rally’ since we need to prepare for the two major gatherings,” NCRPO spokesperson Police Major Hazel Asilo told Super Radyo dzBB. Police personnel were reminded to observe maximum tolerance, exercise restraint, and maintain professionalism.
Several groups from different sectors have expressed plans to hold a third iteration of the Trillion Peso March to protest corruption and political dynasties.
In a social media post, the Koalisyon Makabayan said it would push through EDSA on Wednesday, with or without a permit.
“The PNP is not your enemy. We are not the enemy of the people. We are here to ensure that every activity is orderly, safe, and peaceful,” Aberin said. “While we respect everyone’s right to freedom of expression, it is our duty to maintain order and protect the community. The NCRPO will continue to serve with discipline, respect, and accountability.”
A total of 14,266 personnel will be deployed to key convergence areas, major roads, transport hubs, and other strategic locations.
Deployments include 1,500 augmentation personnel each from Police Regional Office 3 and 4A.
Civil Disturbance Management units, mobile patrol teams, intelligence operatives, and force multipliers will strengthen police presence.
Visitation dialogues with barangay officials, local leaders, and stakeholders have also been conducted to prevent disruptions.
Full alert status began February 21 at 5 p.m., with skeletal deployments starting February 22 in areas expecting initial activities.
Commanders are instructed to coordinate with local government units, monitor developments, and activate contingency plans as needed.
