The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized a massive security force of more than 16,000 officers to maintain peace and order during major three-day prayer rallies happening simultaneously in Metro Manila.
Full Alert and Force Augmentation
According to PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was placed on full alert starting 5 p.m. on November 14, 2025. This proactive measure was taken to ensure all security protocols were in place before the large-scale gatherings commenced. To further bolster the operation, the Central Luzon Police Regional Office is providing an augmentation force of over 2,000 police personnel.
Rally Details and Comprehensive Security Plan
The religious group Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) is holding its 'Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy' at Rizal Park in Manila. Concurrently, the United People’s Initiative (UPI) group is gathering at the Edsa People Power Monument in Quezon City. Both events are scheduled from November 16 to 18, 2025, with an estimated 300,000 participants expected for the INC rally alone.
Nartatez detailed that a comprehensive security plan has been activated. "With the expected influx of people, we have activated a comprehensive security plan that covers ground operations, traffic management, intelligence monitoring, emergency response, and maritime patrols," he stated. The plan is designed to be flexible, with adjustments made in real-time, a measure informed by an incident during the September 21 anti-corruption rallies where protesters attacked policemen.
Commitment to Peaceful Assembly and Transparency
The PNP chief emphasized the force's preparedness and commitment to upholding constitutional rights. "We fully respect the public’s right to peaceful assembly. In return, we ask everyone to observe safety reminders, cooperate with our officers on the ground, and help keep the environment calm and orderly," Nartatez added. To ensure transparency and prevent unfounded accusations, police personnel have been ordered to wear body cameras during the event.
For traffic management, the Highway Patrol Group is on standby, coordinating with other agencies and ensuring that tow trucks and quick-response teams are ready to manage the expected congestion during the assembly periods.
