Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 22)— The Quezon City government allowed progressive groups to hold their protest rallies on Monday a number of kilometers away from the Batasang Pambansa, where President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will deliver his first State of the Nation Address (SONA).
In a statement on Friday, the local government said the groups would be permitted to stage their assemblies on Commonwealth Avenue (eastbound) up to the corner of Tandang Sora Avenue.
The decision came after a dialogue with local officials, who were asked to discuss the appeal filed by progressive group Bayan regarding rally permits.
The LGU earlier rejected Bayan’s request to hold a protest action on SONA day.
“The focal point of the discussion was how to uphold the fundamental constitutional right to freedom of peaceful assembly and free speech, while simultaneously ensuring public order and safety,” the city government said in a statement.
Meanwhile, pro-Marcos groups will also be allowed to conduct their program on the Interim Batasan Pambansa (IBP) Road.
No classes
The city government also announced that it will suspend classes in all levels on Monday “to avoid inconveniencing students who may find transportation difficult.”
“Quezon City-based businesses are likewise highly encouraged to do the same, or adopt work-from-home arrangements, in order to ease mobility requirements and congestion,” it added.
