A memorandum concerning the 12-member Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas’ rally in Davao City has sparked public interest, primarily due to an unusual directive for local law enforcement officers.

In the directive dated 14 February 2025, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) acting city director Hansel Marantan ordered the deployment of 55 police officers and to “wear civilian attire with a touch of red (without Firearms)” on 15 February at Carmen Municipal Grounds. 

People have raised concerns about the symbolism of the color red, which is strongly associated with the administration’s political movements.

In response to the growing controversy, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) denied the claims that this was a politically-motivated move.

They issued a statement Saturday afternoon clarifying that the memo was meant to ensure safety and that the directive was not intended to convey any political affiliation. 

Marantan said that the issuance of the document was in response to a request from the Police Regional Office 11 to deploy 55 police personnel to the Presidential Security Command “for inner security” during the president’s scheduled visit.

He added that the DCPO “remains an apolitical and non-partisan organization committed solely to ensuring public safety and security” and urged the public to “refrain from spreading misinformation or speculation regarding this matter.”

However, the released statement did not clarify why police personnel were directed to wear clothes with a touch of red.