Manila prosecutors junk raps vs. Pride March protesters

The Manila prosecutor's office has dismissed the criminal complaints against the protesters who were arrested during Pride March last June.

Prosecutors dismissed the complaints filed by the police for alleged violations of the law on reporting of communicable diseases, the Public Assembly Act, and for resistance and disobedience to persons in authority, said Minnie Lopez, lawyer for the "Pride 20."

Lopez said the complaints were dismissed for lack of probable cause.

"Video footages submitted by the Respondents show that the assembly was peaceful and yet, the police dispersed them violently and that social distancing and health protocols were observed," the lawyer said.

Police arrested 20 LGBT rights activists who were holding a peaceful protest last June 26.

The Manila Police District claimed a rallyist sprayed a liquid substance at a police officer, igniting tension, but a reporter on the scene said an officer suddenly grabbed a man who was requesting the police to allow the speakers at the event to finish their speeches.

Metro Manila Pride said the rallyists observed physical distancing.

Prosecutors ordered the release of those arrested on June 30. --KBK, GMA News