17 individuals to face raps for allegedly setting truck ablaze, violent acts

Metro Manila, Philippines - Seventeen individuals were arrested and will face charges after they allegedly threw stones and set a trailer truck ablaze amid the anti-corruption protests in Metro Manila.

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), the reported incident occurred in Mendiola, Manila where hundreds gathered for the protest on Sunday, Sept. 21.

The 17 arrested individuals are under the custody of the Manila Police District.

“We respect the public’s right to peaceful assembly, but we strongly appeal to everyone to remain calm and refrain from violence. Such actions endanger lives and undermine the message of those who wish to protest peacefully,” the PNP said in a statement.

The police force said it will continue to observe maximum tolerance, but will act accordingly to those who inflict harm and destroy properties.

“The PNP remains committed to safeguarding both the public and demonstrators,” it said.

Several civil society groups, ordinary citizens, and even celebrities took to the streets to make a call to hold erring government officials accountable amid the supposed corruption in the flood control projects.

Groups flocked to Rizal Park, also called Luneta, and Mendiola in Manila, as well as the historic EDSA Shrine for the protests. The rallies coincided with the anniversary of the martial law declaration of late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, the current chief executive’s father and namesake.