MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported the peaceful conclusion of activities marking the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, with just a few isolated incidents of violence.
In the National Capital Region (NCR), 14 rallies and assemblies were monitored drawing an estimated 1,620 participants. Similar activities were also monitored in other regions across the country, with all monitored gatherings concluding peacefully as of 6:30 PM on September 21, 2026.
Police presence was visible throughout the activities observing maximum tolerance and respecting the constitutional rights of participants while helping ensure public safety, facilitate the orderly conduct of gatherings, and address concerns as they arose.
“Our responsibility is to keep the situation peaceful while making sure people's rights are respected. We recognize that peaceful assembly is part of a democratic society,” Nartatez said.
“Ang mahalaga, napangasiwaan natin ang mga pagtitipon nang maayos, may paggalang sa karapatan ng bawat isa, at may malasakit sa kaligtasan ng publiko,” PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement.
(What matters is that we managed the gatherings properly, with respect for everyone's rights, and with care for public safety.)
He also commended the police personnel deployed for the activities, recognizing their professionalism, patience, and dedication throughout the day's operations.
The PNP also reported a few isolated incidents of violence in Manila but clarified that there were no arrests made as officers observed the government's maximum-tolerance policy.
Col. Allen Rae Co, PNP spokesman said the situation was quickly pacified after some individuals were restrained.
“They were just pacified and they were restrained from doing anything else but they were not actually arrested. They were released immediately,” Co said in a press brieifing.
“So there were no arrests, in line with the maximum-tolerance policy ordered by our President,” he added.
