• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is on full-alert status and has warned protest organizers that rallies will not be permitted in unauthorized areas without a permit, following the strict implementation of the “no permit, no rally” policy.
According to Police Station 1 Commander PCapt. Francis Depasucat, the police are prepared to deal with any demonstrations.
However, he emphasized that groups are required to secure a permit from the local government if they plan to hold a public assembly outside of designated “freedom parks.”
“It is possible that there will be a rally and the BCPO is ready. We already have an area of security and we are on full alert,” Depasucat said.
Under Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, or the Public Assembly Act of 1985, a permit is not needed for rallies held in a designated freedom park. In Bacolod City, this is limited to the People’s Park, or the Bacolod City Public Plaza.
Depasucat urged progressive groups to ensure their activities are peaceful and orderly to avoid violence.
The Philippine National Police reminded the public that any assembly held without the required permit will be considered illegal and may face legal action.
Meanwhile, various groups in Bacolod will stage a protest on September 21, marking the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, as well as to call out the corruption on flood control projects.*
