The Philippine National Police (PNP) has declared its readiness to address potential mass mobilizations resembling past “people power” movements following the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, PNP spokesperson, affirmed that while the public has the right to express their opinions, law enforcement will take necessary measures to maintain peace and order.
This announcement comes after Harry Roque, Duterte’s former presidential spokesperson, urged supporters to gather at EDSA—a site symbolic of previous uprisings—to protest the former president’s detention. Roque has also questioned the legality of Duterte’s arrest, claiming that the warrant issued against him lacks a strong legal basis.
Duterte was taken into custody upon his arrival from Hong Kong. His arrest follows charges of crimes against humanity filed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing his administration’s violent anti-drug campaign that led to thousands of alleged extrajudicial killings. Authorities had already heightened security at major entry points, including airports and seaports, in anticipation of Duterte’s return to the country.
The PNP has since increased its alert status, particularly around the EDSA Shrine and other key areas where mass demonstrations could take place. Fajardo clarified that the police force’s recent simulation exercises are part of ongoing security preparations for the upcoming national and local elections and are not directly related to Duterte’s case.
Meanwhile, the national political climate has grown increasingly tense, with analysts pointing to the ongoing power struggle between the Duterte and Marcos families—two of the country’s most influential political dynasties. Duterte’s decision to run for mayor of Davao City has been perceived by some as a strategic political move amid this rivalry. Additionally, his past admission of employing a so-called “death squad” during his tenure as mayor has intensified scrutiny from both local and international organizations, potentially strengthening the ICC’s case against him.
Despite calls for mass protests, Malacañang has urged Duterte’s supporters to carefully assess the situation and understand that the ICC case was initiated during his presidency, not by the current administration. Officials have warned that any attempts to incite civil unrest could be viewed as actions against the government.
As the situation unfolds, the PNP remains on high alert, aiming to strike a balance between upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and ensuring national security. The coming days will be critical in determining how this political crisis shapes the country’s future governance and legal framework.