AFP places NCR units on red alert amid Edsa protest

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday placed its units in the National Capital Region (NCR) on red alert as authorities responded to a protest along Edsa that drew thousands of demonstrators.

“The AFP has placed units in the NCR on Red Alert Status to ensure heightened operational readiness,” the military said in a statement.

The AFP said the heightened alert is a standard measure to ensure its personnel and assets are prepared to support civil authorities, if requested, in accordance with the Constitution, existing laws and established procedures.

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“The AFP continues to coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other government agencies to promote public safety, security, and the uninterrupted delivery of essential services,” the military said.

The announcement came as members of the Iglesia ni Cristo staged a rally at the People Power Monument to call for transparency, accountability, justice and peace following the Office of the Ombudsman’s announcement that it would file a nonbailable plunder case against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta before the Sandiganbayan.

The demonstration drew thousands of participants, prompting authorities to deploy police and traffic personnel to secure the area and manage traffic along affected sections of Edsa.

Earlier Tuesday, the military also urged organizers to ensure their activities comply with existing laws and “do not unduly disrupt public order or cause unnecessary inconvenience to commuters, workers, students, and other members of the public.”

The AFP said it remains a professional, nonpartisan institution committed to upholding the rule of law, respecting human rights and protecting the rights of all Filipinos while fulfilling its mandate to safeguard the nation. /mr

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