QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The National Capital Region Police Office on Wednesday said it expects a larger turnout for the second day of the Iglesia ni Cristo rally at the EDSA People Power Monument following the issuance of a rally permit by the Quezon City government.
POLICE ANTICIPATE INCREASE IN PARTICIPANTS
NCRPO spokesperson Hazel Asilo said attendance on Wednesday could match or even exceed Tuesday’s crowd since organizers have already secured the necessary permit.
She noted that more Iglesia ni Cristo members may choose to participate now that the rally has official authorization.
CROWD BUILDS ON SECOND DAY
According to the Quezon City Police District, around 5,000 people had already gathered at the EDSA People Power Monument as of 6 a.m.
On Tuesday, authorities estimated that attendance peaked at approximately 15,500 participants.
QUEZON CITY GRANTS RALLY PERMIT
The Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety approved the Iglesia ni Cristo’s request to hold a peaceful rally along the stretch of White Plains Avenue to Temple Drive from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday.
In granting the permit, the city government said it had no objection to the conduct of the assembly.
TRAFFIC AND SECURITY MEASURES IN PLACE
Asilo said authorities were able to prepare security and traffic management plans immediately after the permit was issued.
The NCRPO coordinated with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to help maintain traffic flow and clear portions of EDSA affected by the gathering.
Police have also deployed around 3,000 personnel to secure the rally site and ensure public safety throughout the event.
Ongoing rally in Quezon City
The Iglesia ni Cristo began its assembly at the EDSA People Power Monument on Tuesday, drawing thousands of members. Police and local government officials continue to monitor the gathering while implementing security and traffic measures to minimize disruptions in the surrounding areas.