FILE PHOTO: A barricade of barbed wire and empty cargo containers is installed in Mendiola, Manila as a preventive security measure amid a large rally. (Photo taken by JL Abrina/MANILA BULLETIN)
The Manila Police District (MPD) announced that no group was granted a permit to hold a rally on Mendiola Street during the Labor Day protests, keeping the area off-limits to demonstrators.
MPD spokesperson Maj. Philipp Ines told the that despite the convergence of various labor and progressive organizations in Manila on May 1, no group was granted authorization to stage a program directly in Mendiola.
Because of this, authorities enforced strict security measures in the area, including the deployment of personnel and installation of barricades along key access roads leading to Malacañang Palace.
The MPD said the restrictions were implemented to ensure public order and safety during large-scale demonstrations, particularly in areas near government facilities.
Despite the lack of permits, various groups still attempted to march toward Mendiola as part of their Labor Day mobilizations, calling for higher wages, lower prices of basic goods, and improved labor protections.
Protest actions continued toward Mendiola Street, while authorities said the situation remained orderly and under control.
Police Major Gen. Anthony Aberin, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director, personally supervised the deployment of police personnel along with other officials to ensure public safety during the demonstrations.
Human rights officers and medical teams were also on standby, while police were deployed along major roads to maintain traffic flow despite the protest activities.
Authorities reiterated that a policy of maximum tolerance is being implemented while respecting the right of protesters to peacefully air their grievances.
Police earlier deployed thousands of personnel across major protest routes in Manila to manage crowds and prevent unauthorized entry into restricted zones.
Authorities said the situation remained under control as of press time, with no major incidents reported.