At least 51 protesters were taken into custody for alleged violations of local ordinances and national laws during demonstrations preceding President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that the arrests stemmed from offenses such as vandalism, illegal waste disposal, and the use of balaclavas or face coverings intended to mask identity.
According to authorities, those detained face potential charges under Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000), Batas Pambansa Blg. 880 (Public Assembly Act of 1985), and municipal ordinances governing face coverings.
Nartatez indicated that the arrest count could escalate as law enforcement continues to monitor ongoing rallies.
“Hindi pa tapos [yung program], baka mayroon pang mag-violate,” Nartatez told reporters.
Demonstration groups commenced their march along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City around 2 p.m. Tensions escalated when officers arrested several activists from Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) accused of defacing structures with paint during the rally.