PNP to Deploy Over 17,000 Cops Nationwide for Martial Law Anniversary

MANILA, Philippines — More than 17,000 police personnel will be deployed nationwide on Monday as the Philippines marks the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said. Sept. 21 also marks the anniversary of the Trillion Peso March, when various sectors staged mass protests over alleged corruption in government. The PNP has directed police stations across the country to increase their presence to ensure public order and safety during this anniversary. The plan includes heightened security around major cities, historical sites, and government buildings, with a focus on monitoring protests and gatherings to ensure they remain peaceful. Martial law was declared in the Philippines by then-President Ferdinand Marcos on September 21, 1972, laying the foundation for a period of authoritarian rule that lasted for nearly two decades. This era was marked by widespread human rights abuses and political repression, leaving deep scars on Philippine society to this day. The "Trillion Peso March," on the other hand, refers to protest actions held in the past when public anger surged over allegations of massive corruption within the government. With the anniversary of the "Trillion Peso March" coinciding with the Martial Law anniversary, the PNP is expected to implement strict security measures to prepare for any unforeseen events, while still upholding the freedom of peaceful expression. This large-scale deployment of police officers is seen as an indication of the government's commitment to maintaining social stability, taking into account historical precedents. At the same time, the balance between citizens' right to protest and the need for public security will likely remain a focal point for observation.