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AFP on Martial Law rallies: We secured all groups, no distinctions


The Armed Forces of the Philippines said Saturday the rallies conducted on the 46th anniversary of the declaration of Martial law was a "peaceful turnout" and all sorts of groups for or against the government enjoyed equal protection. 

"It was a peaceful turnout of activities that we attribute to the professional conduct of the uniformed personnel who were out there to ensure that you, our countrymen, can freely and vigorously perpetuate those rights," AFP spokesman Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Likewise, AFP spokesperson said that the military recognized that the activities last Friday were people’s valid exercise of their constitutional rights to freedom of speech and assembly.

"We did not make any distinctions [between types of protesters]—for or against government," Arevalo said.

"You are equally entitled to protection from unscrupulous individuals or groups that may frustrate the enjoyment of your freedom," he added. 

The AFP attributed the orderly conduct of Friday's activities to the vigilance of the organizers and the responsible actions of the protesters.

"Further, from AFP perspective, the developments yesterday show our collective sobriety, respect for the law and each other’s views, and maturity as a people," Arevalo said.

"We assure our countrymen that your AFP is the protector of their rights and will always uphold the Constitution," he said. —Ted Cordero/LBG, GMA News

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