Police are investigating the discovery of five coffins left across Metro Manila as an apparent anti-China protest, Palace officials said Tuesday, while business leaders condemned the act as an attempt to sow fear and division.

Palace spokesperson Claire Castro said during a press briefing that while freedom of expression is protected, authorities are examining whether the displays constituted intimidation or abuse.

“They are not pleased with these kinds of activities,” Castro said. “Even though we say everyone has freedom of expression, it depends on what you are expressing — whether there is abuse or intimidation — which is why the PNP is investigating this.”

When asked if she knew who orchestrated the protest, Castro hinted that she suspected a specific group or individual.

“I already have an idea, but what I am thinking right now is not important,” Castro added.

The Philippine National Police said investigators have established leads regarding who dumped the caskets early Friday.

The five coffins were discovered at the Boy Scout Circle and Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City, in the Santa Cruz district of Manila, along Buendia Avenue in Makati, and in Barangay 54 in Caloocan.

Six of the country’s prominent business organizations — including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Management Association of the Philippines, and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. — issued a joint statement slamming the acts as irresponsible and disrespectful.