Authorities prep for INC’s 3-day Luneta rally
The Philippine National Police said on Wednesday it is ready to secure a three-day religious rally by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) at Rizal Park in Manila on Nov. 16 to 18, where around 300,000 participants are expected to attend.
PNP Public Information Office chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said nearly 10,000 personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be deployed to ensure public safety during the event. The security force will include civil disturbance management units, traffic enforcers, K9 teams, medical support groups, and quick reaction forces.
The National Parks Development Committee has approved the INC’s request to hold the gathering at Rizal Park. The religious group had originally planned to hold its rally at the People Power Monument along Edsa.
Tuaño said the change in venue was made to prevent possible traffic congestion if large crowds gathered along Edsa.
‘Full alert’
He said the Manila Police District (MPD) has already met with the city government of Manila, which pledged to provide perimeter support outside Rizal Park. The city government will also deploy 14 ambulances around the park and tap its Department of Public Services to assist in the operations.
“While this is a religious and not a political rally, the NCRPO will still implement full alert status to maximize police presence and readiness,” Tuaño said in a briefing at Camp Crame on Wednesday.
Tuaño said the initial crowd estimate of 300,000 came from NCRPO intelligence data, but the number could still change following a coordination meeting scheduled for 2 p.m.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police are coordinating with the city government, event organizers, religious leaders, and other agencies to finalize security and traffic plans in compliance with President Marcos’ directive to ensure public safety during the event.
Security protocols
“We welcome this large-scale religious gathering and we are one with the organizers in ensuring that it becomes a peaceful and meaningful event. Our police officers will be there not to interfere, but to protect—to make sure that everyone who comes in faith also goes home safe,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Tuaño urged attendees to cooperate with authorities and follow security protocols, such as submitting to bag checks and avoiding prohibited items.
“We appeal for understanding and cooperation from the public, especially from those attending,” he said during the briefing. “Simple acts like complying with security checks, avoiding prohibited items, and looking out for one another will help us keep the event safe.”
The PNP also advised motorists to expect heavy traffic and road adjustments around Rizal Park and nearby areas, with rerouting schemes and entry-exit points to be announced after a final coordination meeting.
