Clashes Erupt at Bonifacio Day Protest in Manila: 46 Injured

Protesters Clash with Police during Mendiola Bridge March

MANILA, Philippines — Clashes erupted between protesters and police during rallies in Manila on Bonifacio Day, resulting in at least 46 injuries.

According to Raymond Palatino, secretary general of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, 37 activists were injured, including one individual who required surgical staples to close a head laceration.

Nine police officers from the Manila Police District (MPD) also sustained injuries. Five officers received blows to their heads and other body parts during the confrontation along Recto Avenue.

The protests began around 8:45 a.m. when members of various activist groups attempted to breach a police barricade at Recto Avenue and Legarda Street. About 1,000 protesters, primarily from leftist organizations, marched from Liwasang Bonifacio in Ermita with the intention of reaching the Don Chino Roces Bridge near Malacañang Palace. However, they were stopped by about 1,500 police officers deployed for the event.

The police reported that only one arrest was made. The detained individual is a member of the Bayan Muna group. Demonstrators eventually settled along Recto Avenue and concluded their program by 10:40 a.m.

MPD spokesman Maj. Philipp Ines clarified that Mendiola Bridge does not serve as a “freedom park,” unlike Liwasang Bonifacio, for which permits are unnecessary.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) condemned the protesters for their acts of violence, citing injuries and public disorder. While they support the right to peaceful assembly, they emphasized that they would hold those responsible for violence accountable.

The PNP commended their officers for remaining restrained and professional amid provocations. They urged for peaceful dialogue and advised against actions that could threaten public safety.

The MPD is considering charges against protesters who allegedly assaulted police during the rallies.