Palace Urges End to Abandoned Casket Incidents Causing Public Alarm

Malacañang on Friday urged those behind the abandoned caskets found along roads in several parts of Metro Manila to coordinate with the government to air their concerns instead of causing public alarm and disorder. In a video message, Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro emphasized that the people have the right to expression, but such acts do not help the country. "Sa mga gumagawa ng mga ganitong bagay, hindi po kayo pinipigilan sa inyong freedom of expression. Pero ang mga ganitong gawain ay hindi nakakatulong sa ating bansa,” she said. "Kung kayo ay makabayan, makipagtulungan po kayo sa ating pamahalaan para matugunan ang inyong mga issues. Huwag na po kayong maging sanhi ng pangamba, pananakot, at panggugulo,” she added. Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a comprehensive probe to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the incidents. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), meanwhile, condemned the placement of the caskets bearing an anti-Chinese message in parts of Metro Manila. The agency described the incidents as "irresponsible and disrespectful” acts that cannot be tolerated. Castro likewise urged the public to report any unusual activities observed in their area to the authorities or the police, or to call the unified 911 hotline.—LDF, GMA News