MANILA – Labor Day rallies across the country remained largely peaceful, with no major security issues recorded, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.
Initial data showed nine protest actions nationwide, drawing an estimated 3,410 participants. Eight were still ongoing at midday, while one had already wrapped up.
Protesters raised common labor concerns such as wage hikes, fuel costs, and improved protection for workers.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the overall situation was orderly.
“So far, our assessment is positive. We have not recorded any untoward incidents,” he said in a briefing.
Police were deployed for visibility patrols, traffic management, and crowd control while securing areas where rallies were held. Officers also coordinated with organizers to ensure peaceful assemblies.
Tuaño said most rallies in Metro Manila were conducted without official permits, except for one event cleared by the Marikina local government.
He also addressed criticism over security measures near Malacañang, including the installation of barbed wire.
“There is no such thing as overkill in preparation when it comes to security,” he said.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured the public that monitoring would continue despite the calm situation.
“We remain on alert to ensure safety and to support the peaceful expression of concerns,” he said.
A total of more than 106,000 police personnel were deployed nationwide, backed by partner agencies and force multipliers.
ia/xf
