Calls to withdraw support could lead to arrest – Gibo

MANILA, Philippines — Ahead of the Trillion Peso March tomorrow, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. warned that individuals calling for a “withdrawal of support” from the government could be arrested and charged.

“That’s totally illegal. That is inciting to sedition. What you cannot do directly, you cannot do indirectly in the law,” he said.

Teodoro explained that urging a withdrawal of support amounts to an indirect attempt to take over power, which he described as illegal.

“I think, yes, I think they could be arrested. I mean, it’s illegal – it’s an indirect, artful way of saying something you are not allowed to say,” he added.

Gun ban

In preparation for the large-scale protest, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has imposed a gun ban as authorities brace for possible infiltration by groups aiming to disrupt the anti-corruption demonstrations.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said permits to carry firearms outside of residence will be suspended from 12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Monday.

Only uniformed personnel from the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies performing official duties are exempt.

“This directive shall be implemented in consonance with the concept of enhanced management police operations in close coordination with the AFP, other LEAs and local government units,” Nartatez said in a memorandum.

The gun ban forms part of a broader security plan as the PNP prepares a stronger presence in protest sites to avoid a repeat of the Sept. 21 riots in Manila.

About 15,000 police officers will be deployed across Metro Manila, including the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, areas around Malacañang Palace, the EDSA People Power Monument and EDSA Shrine in Quezon City, the Senate in Pasay and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure in Taguig.

Although the police have not detected any credible threat, Nartatez said they are gearing up for possible infiltration by “nefarious groups” similar to the incidents last September.

“Our intelligence monitoring is focused on potential agitators. Rest assured, we are coordinating closely with other agencies to prevent any attempt to hijack the peaceful intent of the rally,” he said yesterday.

Nartatez emphasized that the expanded presence aims to strengthen quick response capability and not intimidate protesters.

“Let me be clear that law enforcement presence does not mean aggressive action. The order for maximum tolerance still remains,” he said.

To ensure transparency and accountability, police officers will be required to wear body cameras, while human rights affairs personnel will monitor possible abuses. Field commanders have also been directed to complete coordination with protest organizers.

In Negros Island, regional police are tightening preparations as well.

The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) will deploy at least 2,000 officers for the parallel Trillion Peso March 2.0 on Nov. 30, where organizers expect about 12,000 participants.

“We respect the people’s right to peaceful assembly and our duty is to protect that right while safeguarding the welfare of the entire community. I call on all participants to exercise responsibility and cooperation as we work together to maintain peace and civility throughout the event,” PRO-NIR regional director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay said.

Full support

In a statement on Friday, UP president Angelo Jimenez reaffirmed the university’s call for transparency, accountability and justice, saying UP will stand with the Filipino people in lawful protests on Nov. 30.

“UP itself is actively taking measures to enhance quality management and assurance systems, to effectively address key challenges in public infrastructure, strengthen accountability and build institutional capacity,” he said.

“Together, let us drive systemic transformation, because the fight for a just and honest society cannot wait,” he added.

Support has also surged among church leaders. Caritas Philippines president and Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said at least 85 dioceses and archdioceses nationwide back the Trillion Peso March, describing it as “a moral call for justice and integrity in the governance of the nation.”

A pastoral letter from the bishops of Davao, Digos, Tagum and Mati echoed these statements, lamenting worsening corruption despite past reform movements.

In Negros, the Diocese of Bacolod issued a circular urging transparency and moral leadership, citing public frustration over billions in public funds that did not translate into vital infrastructure.

“These corrupt practices have placed many of our brothers and sisters in great difficulty,” Bishop Patricio Buzon said, adding that the Church “cannot remain silent.” — Michael Punongbayan, Bella Cariaso, Gilbert Bayoran, Emmanuel Tupas