Probe on cops’ ‘brutal’ arrests during anti-corruption rally pushed
Metro Manila, Philippines - The Makabayan bloc is demanding an investigation into the police’s alleged brutal arrests during the Sept. 21 anti-corruption protests.
The bloc also called for the release of 91 minors who were among the 216 apprehended in Mendiola, Manila amid clashes during the demonstrations.
ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio, Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Co, and Gabriela Women's Party Rep. Sarah Elago visited the arrested individuals at the Manila Police District.
“Our visit confirmed clear rights violations. First, the majority of those detained were deprived of their Miranda rights. They were unable to make contact with their families and without access to legal counsel. Second, a number of detainees reported experiencing violence during their arrest and while in police custody,” the bloc said on Tuesday, Sept. 23.
They also asked to respect the Miranda rights of the detainees and a medical examination, stressing Alexis Lasic, a person with disability, was injured by authorities.
“He was brutally beaten and dragged by police officers along the street as he was arrested. He bore clear signs of his ordeal and appeared to have received inadequate treatment for his injuries,” the opposition lawmakers said.
National Union of People's Lawyers and Karapatan lawyers were allowed to provide assistance to some of the arrested protesters.
The Makabayan bloc urged the Marcos administration to avoid using the clashes “as a pretext to suppress dissent.”
“The people's protest actions will inevitably grow in the coming weeks and months, fueled by the escalating clamor for justice, accountability, and genuine system change,” the bloc said.
Sunday’s anti-corruption protests called for accountability from government officials and contractors in the wake of the anomalous flood control projects.
