A protest in Manila, Philippines, on 21/9 turned violent when a group of about 400 masked youths clashed with riot police.
The group attempted to breach police lines to reach the Malacañang Palace in the morning. They threw rocks, bottles, and flammable materials at security forces and set a truck on fire. Police and firefighters were deployed to extinguish the fire and quickly brought the situation under control.
Later that afternoon, protesters regrouped on Mendiola Street, throwing flares, rocks, and setting a police vehicle ablaze. Riot police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and long-range acoustic devices to disperse the crowd.
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Young people attack police on Mendiola Street in Manila on 21/9. Photo: PhilStar |
Young people attack police on Mendiola Street in Manila on 21/9. Photo: PhilStar
Manila Police District spokesperson Philipp Ines said about 100 police officers and protesters were injured. 20 protesters, including children as young as 11, were arrested.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instructed police to exercise maximum restraint in handling the confrontation, emphasizing that "no one should be hurt".
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla affirmed the Philippine government's "maximum tolerance" for peaceful protests but promised firm action against violence. "We support the people's demand for accountability from officials, but we will not tolerate chaos," he said.
Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso imposed a curfew on youths under 17, from 10 PM to 4 AM.
The wave of protests in the Philippines centers on corruption, with many citizens expressing frustration over ineffective flood control projects that have wasted billions of USD.
Philippine authorities estimate that around 49,000 people gathered at Rizal Park in Manila and other locations to demand officials disclose their assets, sign bank transparency pledges, and take responsibility for shortcomings in flood control projects.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) urged calm and warned against dangerous actions. The agency emphasized its commitment to protecting both the public and protesters, and holding any troublemakers accountable.
PNP Officer-in-Charge Jose Melencio Nartatez acknowledged corruption as a national concern, particularly regarding flood control projects. He noted that police are "both victims of flooding and first responders to its aftermath". However, he warned that violent actions endanger lives and undermine the protest's message.
Thanh Danh (PhilStar, PNA, ABS-CBN)
