A planned protest march to Mendiola Bridge on Bonifacio Day was thwarted by police on Saturday, with hundreds of protesters, mostly from militant groups, gathering at Recto Avenue but were prevented from proceeding further.

The Manila Police District (MPD) implemented security measures to contain the rally, citing concerns about public safety and order.

According to MPD spokesperson P/Maj. Philip Ines, the Mendiola Bridge area has not designated as a freedom park, thereby limiting the scope of protest activities that may be held there.

The dispersal operation led to a tense standoff between protesters and police, resulting in minor injuries to several officers. The injured officers were immediately brought to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

Videos of the altercation showed cops being punched by some of the protesters.

Despite the police intervention, the protesters maintained their calls for various social and political reforms, including addressing issues of poverty, inequality, and government corruption.

They vowed to continue their struggle for a just and equitable society.

Meanwhile, despite fewer pro-Duterte protesters at the EDSA Shrine, security remained tight there on Saturday with continued police presence.

While many of the remaining protesters appear to be resting, their presence hasn’t impacted traffic flow.

The Quezon City Police District said it remains vigilant to maintain peace, supported by officers from the Eastern Police District, some of whom were equipped riot gear in case of any unrest.