Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga-Guided by the 7 Focus Agenda of Acting Chief PNP, PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., which underscores effective management of activities and crowd control at all levels, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) reported that demonstrations commemorating the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law on September 21 were generally peaceful throughout Central Luzon.
PRO3 Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. said that protest actions and public gatherings in various parts of Central Luzon were carried out in a calm and orderly manner. Field units maintained close coordination with local government officials and civic leaders to ensure that the right to free expression was respected without compromising public safety.
While the region itself remained peaceful, PRO3 confirmed that at least 13 of its personnel were among the police officers injured in Mendiola, Manila, where large protest rallies took place. These personnel were immediately given medical treatment and are now in stable condition. PBGEN Peñones Jr. expressed concern for their well-being, saying, “We stand in solidarity with our injured personnel and commend their dedication and bravery in the line of duty. PRO3 will provide all necessary assistance to ensure their recovery and well-being.”
Despite the incident, PRO3 assured that maximum tolerance and respect for human rights were strictly observed in all operations, in line with national directives. PBGEN Peñones Jr., together with the PRO3 Command Group and Quad Staff, personally monitored developments and issued operational guidelines to ensure both effective crowd control and the safety of law enforcers deployed to high-density protest areas. He emphasized that while PRO3 prioritizes the safety of its personnel, it remains steadfast in safeguarding the rights of demonstrators.
Authorities reminded the public to continue exercising their constitutional freedoms in a calm, peaceful, and orderly manner. “We thank the people of Region 3 for their cooperation and discipline, which greatly contributed to the maintenance of peace and order during this significant commemoration,” the Regional Director added. PRO3 reiterated its commitment to impartiality and fairness in managing public assemblies, in strict observance of the PNP’s 7 Focus Agenda under Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Nartatez Jr.
