(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines—The Manila City government suspended classes and closed several roads due to the scheduled Iglesia ni Cristo rally today, Thursday.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno announced the suspension of classes in all levels for both public and private schools during his Facebook Live, saying it was to ensure the safety and well-being of students, parents, teachers, and the general public as the INC rally would be held at Liwasang Bonifacio, a designated freedom park where no permit was needed.
“To our fellow citizens, I urge you: while the City of Manila is recognizing the right of everyone to free expression here in the City of Manila, and especially if this will be done in Freedom Park, in our own little way, we're trying to help augment or keep things in order,” the mayor added, urging the protesters to maintain peace and order.
Earlier on Thursday, the Manila Public Information Office announced that the stretch of CM Recto Avenue from Nicanor Reyes Street to Mendiola Street, Legarda Street from Figueras Street to San Rafael Street, Magallanes Drive from Jones Bridge to MacArthur Bridge, the entire Ayala Bridge, and the eastbound lane of Ayala Boulevard from San Marcelino Street to Romualdez Street would be closed.
The advisory was issued after heavy traffic was observed during the first two days of the protest held at the People Power Monument along EDSA in Quezon City.
