Metro Manila, Philippines – Police will arrest protesters who will burn effigies during President Bongbong Marcos’ third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) chief said.
QCPD District Director Redrico Maranan said effigy burning is against Batas Pambansa 880.
“Meron tayong mga ipapatupad na security measures kaya nga tayo makikipag-dialogue sa mga leaders ng mga grupong gustong magsagawa ng aktibidad nang sa ganu’n maipaliwanag natin sa kanila ‘yung security measures na ating ipatutupad,” Maranan said on Wednesday, July 10.
[Translation: We will carry out security measures that’s why we will have a dialogue with leaders of groups who want to participate in the activity so we can explain to them.]
“‘Pag may nagsunog ng effigy, syempre huhulihin natin kung sino ‘yung nagsusunog at magpa-file tayo ng demanda,” he added.
[Translation: If someone burns an effigy, we will arrest them, and we will file a complaint.]
Aside from effigy burning, firearms and deadly weapons are prohibited. Checkpoints will also be put up.
The ban on carrying firearms and indulging in liquor will take effect on the eve of the SONA.
Maranan said around 6,000 police officers will be deployed on SONA day, adding that the directive is for them to observe maximum tolerance.
“Ang borderline niyan ay kapag ‘yung mga nagra-rally nagsimula nang lumabag sa mga umiiral na batas – nanggulo, nanakit, nanira ng mga personal at government properties – we will effect arrest,” he said.
[Translation: The borderline is when the protesters begin to violate laws – start trouble, cause injury, and destroy personal and government properties – we will effect arrest.]
Maranan said the police will be on alert despite the absence of threat reports.
