The crowd continued to swell at the People Power Monument (PPM) on Sunday after a march from the EDSA Shrine brought participants of the Trillion Peso March Movement to the site, the focal point of a major protest rally against what organizers describe as systematic corruption in the government.
Ret. Gen. Elmo San Diego, Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) head, told the Daily Tribune that the number of participants had already reached the 3,000 mark based on their estimate. He said authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared for “any eventuality” because of the gathering.
“3k na, but still increasing,” San Diego said, referring to the crowd estimate.
He added that the Memorandum of Undertaking (MoU) with the Trillion Peso March Movement imposed several conditions on the use of the PPM this Sunday at the corner of EDSA and White Plains Avenue.
These conditions include that “no marching” will be carried out from White Plains Avenue “to any other areas.” The MoU also prohibits “acts of rebellion, insurrection or sedition nor any incitement” from rallyists.
“Any such acts shall be ground for dispersal or apprehension in accordance with the provisions of the Revised Penal Code,” the agreement stated.
“(There is only) one rally permit approved or granted (for the use of) PPM. Trillion Peso March Movement.+ is allowed to march at 6:am to PPM,” San Diego said, noting that any activity at the EDSA Shrine falls under the jurisdiction of the Eastern Police District.
He also disclosed intelligence reports suggesting that the Duterte-linked Maisug group is planning to join the rally.
“Haharangin (sila ng) QCPD,” San Diego said.