Violent, aggressive, and fearless — that’s how authorities described the group behind coordinated attacks across different areas in Manila on Sunday, September 21. The incidents coincided with nationwide protests condemning widespread government corruption and commemorating the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law.
According to the Manila Local Government Unit’s (LGU) ongoing investigation, it is becoming clearer who incited the chaos in what was supposed to be a peaceful demonstration.
“Organized group, ang bayad nila sa mga bata ay ₱3,000 each, may mga videos pa kami na ipinapakita nila ang mga pera nila, yung niyayabang sa social media at mostly kinuha sila sa mga Quiapo area,” said Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, citing findings from their probe.
Authorities revealed that the group allegedly planned to set fire to Malacañang Palace. However, their initial attempt was thwarted when personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) secured Ayala Bridge, one of the nearest access points leading to the Palace.
“Ang instruction sa kanila, kung kaya nyong umabot sa palasyo sunugin nyo. Ganoon lang. Destabilization talaga ang angle nila, destabilization talaga,” Remulla stressed.
Meanwhile, Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso said they are also investigating the possible involvement of an international group.
“Lahat tinitingnan namin even international communities or some international group who wanted to create a chaotic impression in our country because may nakikita kaming ibang narrative sa abroad,” Domagoso said in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel’s Headstart.
He added, “Baka naman may mga individual na involved sa kaso ngayon or pending investigation wanted to create chaos.”
Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, Deputy Spokesperson of PDP-Laban — the party of former President Rodrigo Duterte — denied any involvement in the violence.