Over 200 arrested in Philippine anti-corruption protest clashes

Parents seek answers from police after at least 88 minors are taken into custody

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A protester clashing with police officers in Manila on Sept 21, when thousands of Filipinos rallied in the Philippine capital to vent their anger over a ballooning scandal involving bogus flood-control projects believed to have cost taxpayers billions of dollars.

(PHOTO: REUTERS)

Anxious Filipino parents braved the rain outside Manila’s police headquarters on Sept 22, after more than 200 people — including dozens of children — were arrested in clashes that erupted during weekend anti-corruption demonstrations.

At least 88 minors were among the initial count of 216 taken into custody on Sept 21 as the police deployed water cannon and deafening sirens against crowds of mostly young, rock-throwing protesters.

Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno said a 12-year-old boy was the youngest detained.

Ms Michelle Blanco told AFP news agency her son, Zoren, was 13. Standing in a line outside the Manila Police District offices, the 45-year-old saleswoman said she had not been told when her son would be released, despite having spent most of the day there.