MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that it is monitoring planned demonstrations on March 11, marking one year since former president Rodrigo Duterte was arrested, transferred, and detained in The Hague over crimes against humanity charges.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said social media monitoring has flagged posts calling for a massive motorcade rally along EDSA, ending at Villamor Air Base.

“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.

He instructed police to increase deployment in Metro Manila and Davao City, Duterte’s stronghold, to prepare for any rallies.

Nartatez also reminded police to exercise maximum tolerance and follow the rule of law, while urging participants to observe discipline and comply with 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.