DOJ, PNP hold prep meeting ahead of 16-18 Nov. rallies

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) held a preparatory meeting on Thursday to ensure readiness in case of disruptions or violence during the scheduled rallies on 16, 17 and 18 November, Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon said.

The meeting focused on coordinating police and prosecutors ahead of time, following sporadic incidents of violence during the 21 September rallies. “We want everything to be sorted out even before it happens. We do not want to be complacent and just reactive when it actually happens,” Fadullon told reporters.

Prosecutors from the Office of the City Prosecutor of Manila and other parts of Metro Manila, including Quezon City, were alerted to receive and process complaints should cases be filed. Fadullon emphasized that the DOJ will be on standby to ensure swift handling of any incidents.

The meeting included high-level PNP officials, and discussions centered solely on security preparations. Fadullon clarified that there were no deliberations regarding Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa or any unrelated matters.

On the status of previous cases, Fadullon noted that complaints against protesters in Mendiola have already been filed, with some dismissed and others still pending in court.

The DOJ and PNP said their coordination aims to maintain peace and order during the rallies while preparing for any eventuality.