Over 14K deployed for EDSA 40

Over 14,000 policemen were deployed at the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution to provide security in anticipation of up to 40,000 attendees the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Wednesday, 

“Actually ang naideploy natin personnel is 14,900 although we are expecting na yung based doon sa mga natanggap natin impormasyon na kung saan yung mga dadalo sa lahat ng aktibidades na ito ay aabutin ng more or less 40,000,” newly assumed PNP Director for Operations Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones told reporters during a press briefing held at the PNP Command Center in Camp Crame.

“Maraming grupo yung gustong tahimik. Ang binabantayan lang natin dito yung ibang grupo na, sabi ko nga, nag-aagitate para magkaroon ng kaguluhan. Ito yung focus ng ating deployment. Ito yung focus ng ating kapulisan na see to it na hindi sila makagawa ng kahit anong karahasan at mang-agitate doon sa ibang mga kasama,” Peñones said.

PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on the other hand said the PNP joins the nation in commemorating the historic moment in February 1986 that remained "a meaningful chapter in our country’s journey—one that highlights the power of unity, peaceful action, and shared aspirations for a better Philippines." 

"As we reflect on this milestone, we honor the enduring hopes of the Filipino people for a nation grounded in democratic principles, accountability, and respect for the rule of law," he said.

"The PNP remains steadfast in fulfilling its constitutional mandate with professionalism, impartiality, and full respect for human rights. We are committed to ensuring that all activities related to this commemoration are conducted safely, peacefully, and with respect for the rights of everyone, " Nartayez added. 

Only the groups Trillion Peso March Movement, Tindig Pilipinas and Siklab were granted a permit by the Quezon City government to mount their rally along White Plains Avenue near the People Power Monument.

Asked why the other groups were not granted permits, Peñones answered, “Alam kong maraming nag-apply. Pero, yung iba, hindi naaprubahan sa kadahilanan, ang sinasabi ng ibang local government units natin, nagkaroon sila ng violations doon sa mga previous permits.” Peñones said. 

He added that Nartatez instructed them to exercise maximum tolerance for groups without permits.