BBM monitoring protests

Although it was not seen by the administration as a threat, the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally at EDSA yesterday prompted President Marcos to cancel some of his events and government troops to tighten security around Malacañang.

- By ALEXIS ROMERO

Marcos was supposed to attend the inauguration of a South Korea-donated marine cleanup vessel in Manila and a luncheon with the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines in Makati, but skipped them to monitor the rally, which coincided with the fourth anniversary of his presidency.

However, Marcos’ acceptance of the credentials of US Ambassador Lee Lipton pushed through.

Security cordons were placed in front of the Arlegui and Solano gates at the Malacañang complex, leaving the Laurel entrance as the only entry point open to vehicles.

Despite the canceled events and the enhanced security measures, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government does not view the rally, which was meant to express support for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, as posing a threat.

"We do not see a threat because the President knows that what he is doing is for the people. If other groups have interests, they should not prevent the President and the administration from implementing the law," Castro said at a press briefing.

The rally was held a day after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that non-bailable plunder charges would be filed against Marcoleta, an INC member, in relation to P75-million undeclared campaign donations during the 2025 Senate race.

Castro added that Marcos respects the right to free expression and freedom of assembly but does not recognize the abuses that may stem from them.

"We can say that there is abuse if they affect other people. We also have to respect each other's rights," the Palace press officer said.

She described the people affected by the "surprise" rally as "collateral damage," saying: "People who should not be affected were affected. It had a huge impact on the economy, every business and every person who needed to go to school or report for work or rush to the hospital. If you intend to hold a rally... there should be a permit.