President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed no objection to the planned anti-corruption rallies set for November 30, as long as these remain peaceful and free from violence, especially from so-called “agitators” who may disguise themselves as protesters with the intent to harm others.
Speaking during a “Kapihan” press briefing in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Saturday, November 1, while attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, Marcos said he understands the public’s frustration over recent corruption issues and respects the people’s right to peaceful assembly.
“The only concern I have when we have demonstrations for whatever reason is that there are agitators who will go and try to cause trouble,” the President said.
He also questioned the motives of those who bring weapons to rallies, saying: “What demonstrator goes to a demonstration with Molotov cocktails that are not intending to cause trouble or to hurt people?”
While he affirmed his openness to protests, Marcos warned about individuals who may exploit gatherings to incite violence.
“We have a good idea of who they are. And I hope that they don’t… Tanggalin na ninyo sa isip ninyo ‘yan. Manggugulo kayo. Wala namang mangyayari. May masasaktan lang. Nasasaktan pa ‘yung mga kasama ninyo kung minsan,” he said.
The President assured that authorities will closely monitor groups suspected of provoking unrest, emphasizing that law enforcement presence during demonstrations is meant to ensure safety, not to intimidate.
“They’re not there to hurt anyone. So that’s the only thing I worry about,” Marcos added, reiterating that the government fully supports peaceful civic expression but will not tolerate acts of violence or disorder.