The Philippine National Police (PNP) has pledged to enforce the law with absolute impartiality following the Quezon City government's decision to revoke the rally permit for the scheduled Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) assembly on Thursday, July 2, 2026. This comes after the INC rally at the People Power Monument along EDSA caused a massive traffic jam, particularly on the northbound side of EDSA and White Plains, as roads were blocked by protesters on June 30, 2026.
President's directive and police stance
The PNP's commitment aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., conveyed through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to uphold the rule of law, maintain peace and order, ensure public safety, and minimize disruption to commuters and motorists. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. directed the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) to maintain sufficient deployment in Quezon City and nearby areas where gatherings may occur.
Reason for permit revocation
The Quezon City government withdrew the permit it had earlier issued for the INC's planned Thursday assembly, citing severe inconvenience and traffic congestion caused by the previous two days of gatherings. Nartatez urged the INC leadership to respect this decision and encourage its members to comply with the law.
“The PNP respects the local government’s decision to revoke the rally permit, which was based on the need to restore public convenience and ensure the safety of our commuters,” Nartatez said in a statement on Thursday. “Without a permit, any assembly becomes a matter of public order and traffic management, and we will enforce the law with the same firmness and fairness that defines our 'Bagong PNP' mandate.”
Dialogue and enforcement
Nartatez also ordered field commanders to prioritize dialogue and negotiation before any enforcement action if participants still proceed with the assembly despite the absence of a valid permit. “We urge the organizers to respect the local government's order and demonstrate their commitment to peace by vacating the rally site and help in restoring order and normalcy in the area,” he said.
Expected move to Liwasang Bonifacio
However, Nartatez noted that police forces, especially in Metro Manila and nearby regions, will remain on alert as protesters are expected to move to Liwasang Bonifacio to continue their activities. He said a sufficient number of personnel will be deployed not only to secure the activity but also to protect the rights of motorists, commuters, and students who would be affected at the new rally site. Nartatez also called on protesters to be mindful of the rights of people in the new rally site, as Liwasang Bonifacio is located in a busy area in Manila.
