Claire Castro says Marcos puzzled over INC rally for Marcoleta

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was puzzled as to why there was a need to hold a rally at the People Power Monument in Edsa for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who is set to face a non-bailable plunder case before the Sandiganbayan.

This was according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, who said Marcos listens to and respects religious sects.

READ: No plans to disperse INC rally yet even without permit – NCRPO

Article continues after this advertisement

“In a way, he was surprised. He was surprised that because Senator Marcoleta is being charged or is involved in a case, the brethren of the INC, our respected brethren, would already launch such a large rally,” she said at a briefing when asked for Marcos’ reaction to the matter.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

“But still, the President is listening and respects them. His only request is that we all respect those who are affected, especially those who should not be affected,” Castro continued.

The Palace official lamented the “collateral damage” caused by the gathering, including heavy traffic and other inconveniences to the public.

“So, if we see any violation of any law now, this will be investigated, and if accountability is necessary—and it is likely clear if there is a violation of the law—then those responsible must also be held accountable,” she said.

No lapses?

Meanwhile, Castro said she could not determine whether there were any lapses on the part of the government regarding the rally.

Article continues after this advertisement

“I cannot answer whether there were intelligence lapses, because we only found out about it in the early morning,” she said.

“Maybe it was really planned as a surprise rally, kept hidden. And although, as we always say, we respect the leadership of the INC, admitting that this was a surprise rally and that it was concealed is not good; it is not proper because it does not comply with the law and it also does not respect the rights of other people,” she added.

Article continues after this advertisement

As of 2 p.m., a total of 12,030 participants were seen at the rally in the People Power Monument based on data from the Philippine National Police.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government said it has directed the police force to exercise maximum tolerance and implement appropriate security measures. /mr

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.