QCPD to SONA protesters: Don’t burn effigies warned

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) will not hesitate to arrest protesters who will burn effigies during the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Marcos on July 22, an official said yesterday.

QCPD director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said the burning of effigies is illegal under Batas Pambansa 880 or the Public Assembly Act.

“Burning of any object in the streets is among the offenses under section 13 of the law,” he said.

Asked what police will do if protesters are spotted burning an effigy, Maranan said they would be apprehended.

The burning of effigies has been a tradition of militant groups during the SONA.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan president Renato Reyes said they are preparing a protest effigy symbolizing the feud of Marcos and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, as they “vie for power and influence while the rest of the nation is mired in poverty.”

Maranan yesterday led the inspection of police officers who will form part of the security contingent for the SONA at the QCPD headquarters at Camp Karingal.

Police showcased logistical equipment, including a robot, which can be used in the disposal of explosives.

Up to 22,000 police officers will secure the SONA. Of the number, 6,000 will be deployed near the Batasang Pambansa complex where Marcos will deliver his public address.