PNP denies crowd build-up in Mendiola ahead of INC rally

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday denied information spreading online that huge crowds have already gathered in Mendiola in Manila ahead of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally from November 16 to 18.

“The Philippine National Police strongly denies circulating online claims that large crowds have already gathered in Mendiola ahead of the scheduled three-day assemblies from November 16 to 18, 2025. Ground verification by our monitoring teams confirms that these posts are false, misleading, and deliberately crafted to create unnecessary alarm and confusion,” the PNP said in a statement.

“We urge the public not to believe unverified information circulating on social media. Always check the source and rely only on official government advisories and credible news outlets. The PNP issues situation updates and alerts based on validated assessments from units on the ground—not on speculation or fabricated reports,” it added.

The PNP said it is “fully prepared” to ensure a safe, peaceful, and orderly rally, as security, traffic, and public safety personnel are deployed and actively monitoring key areas in Metro Manila.

It added that significant crowd development will be coursed through official channels.

“We also remind the public that the willful and malicious dissemination of false information, especially when intended to mislead or cause public panic, carries legal consequences,” the PNP said, as its Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) are set to take action and file appropriate charges against individuals or groups responsible for spreading disinformation.

“We call on the public to stay calm, stay informed, and support efforts to maintain peace and order during the upcoming three-day assemblies,” the PNP said.

An earlier 24 Oras report by Sandra Aguinaldo on Friday said the PNP will be deploying more than 16,000 police personnel.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) also said that it would deploy prosecutors in various locations, including Manila and Quezon City, in case violence breaks out. —VAL, GMA Integrated News