Over 5K policemen deployed for INC peace rally

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has deployed more than 5,000 police officers and security personnel to ensure peace and security during the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) peace rally on 13 January.

The deployment includes 4,418 police officers stationed at various locations and 1,300 augmentation forces assigned to provide route security during the event.

NCRPO chief BGen. Anthony Aberin said they have coordinated with the Iglesia ni Cristo leadership to ensure peace and order at the national rally.

The following roads will be closed starting at 4 a.m. on Monday: Katigbak Drive and South Drive, Independence Road; both directions of Roxas Blvd. from Katigbak Drive to U.N. Ave.; both directions of Bonifacio Drive from Katigbak Drive to Anda Circle; P. Burgos Ave. from Victoria St. to Roxas Blvd.; Ma. Orosa St. from P. Burgos Ave. to U.N. Ave.; Finance Rd. from P. Burgos Ave. to Taft Ave.; Gen. Luna Roundtable; and Kalaw Ave. from Taft Ave. to Roxas Blvd.

Motorists are advised to follow the rerouting plan and consider alternative routes.

Meanwhile, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Don Artes said they will allow one-lane street parking for rally participants near the venue.

Artes added that violators of the one-lane parking rule will be issued citation tickets and have their vehicles towed "in accordance with the MMDA’s illegal parking rules."

The MMDA will also designate emergency lanes, particularly on Katigbak and South Drive, to allow emergency vehicles to pass.

“Aside from the rerouting plans, the agency will deploy around 1,300 personnel and implement a no day-off, no absent policy to assist motorists starting the evening of Sunday, January 12,” Artes said.

Malacañang has also issued a suspension of work in government offices and classes at all school levels in Manila and Pasay to accommodate the INC rally.