By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

SECURED. Police officers stand guard at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City in this Nov. 17, 2025 photo. The Philippine National Police on Monday (March 9, 2026) said it is on alert for possible protests by supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte on March 11, marking the anniversary of his arrest, transfer and detention in The Hague. (PNA file photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is on alert for protests on March 11, marking one year since former president Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest, transfer and detention in The Hague.

In a statement on Monday, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said social media monitoring has flagged posts calling for a massive motorcade rally.

The planned route reportedly spans EDSA, ending at Villamor Air Base, to mark Duterte’s first anniversary in international custody for crimes against humanity.

“We are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with local units to ensure public safety,” he said.

“While we respect the right to peaceful assembly, we also have the mandate to ensure that there will be no incident that will disrupt normal activities and threaten peace and order,” Nartatez added.

Nartatez instructed police to increase deployment in Metro Manila and Davao City, Duterte’s bailiwick, in preparation for any rallies.

Nartatez also reminded police to exercise maximum tolerance and follow the rule of law, and urged protest participants to exercise discipline and follow authorities’ instructions.

“We respect your right to protest but I remind everyone to exercise discipline and comply with authorities’ directions to prevent unnecessary conflicts,” he said. (PNA)