18/09/2025
PNP ASSURES PROFESSIONALISM, PREPAREDNESS FOR SEPTEMBER 21 RALLY AND TRANSPORT STRIKE
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier emphasized the importance of addressing issues of corruption and governance with transparency, even initiating an independent probe into flood control projects. In line with this, the Philippine National Police, under the leadership of Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., assured the public of its professionalism and non-partisan stance as it prepares for the September 21 anti-corruption rally and the scheduled three-day transport strike.
During today’s press briefing, PNP Spokesperson PBGEN Randulf T. Tuaño reported that the PNP has placed its forces on heightened alert, particularly in Metro Manila, with adjustments to be made depending on developing situations. A total of more than 50,000 PNP personnel nationwide will be deployed for law enforcement, checkpoint control, traffic assistance, and crowd management. Of this number, over 23,000 personnel are directly assigned to duties related to the September 21 rally, including drone operators and traffic enforcers to ensure smooth mobility and public safety.
Crowd estimates from open sources and intelligence units suggest participation will remain below 10,000 in Metro Manila, though the PNP is closely monitoring online mobilization calls. “Regardless of the numbers, the PNP is ready. Our deployment ensures both public safety and the protection of participants’ rights,” PBGEN Tuaño said.
In relation to the three-day transport strike, the PNP will support government agencies, including LTFRB, LTO, and MMDA, to provide assistance to commuters. A total of 432 police vehicles nationwide will be made available for libreng sakay (free rides), in addition to LGU support units, to mitigate the impact on workers and the commuting public.
When asked about concerns that the rally might escalate due to political tensions, PBGEN Tuaño stressed:
“The PNP stays professional and apolitical—our only mission is peace and order.”
He further assured the public that maximum tolerance will be exercised and open coordination with rally organizers will be prioritized to ensure peaceful assemblies, similar to the outcome of the September 12 and 13 protests.
On criticisms labeling the police as “pulis ng politiko,” Tuaño firmly responded:
“The PNP will remain non-partisan and apolitical. We respect the sentiments of every citizen, but our role will always be the preservation of peace and order.”