Maximum tolerance for Iglesia ni Cristo rallyists, PNP says

The PNP is observing a policy of maximum tolerance as members of the Iglesia ni Cristo continue to block Padre Faura Street in front of the Department of Justice compound, to protest what they called government meddling in the affairs of the religious group.

"As per Chief Supt. Rolly Nana, director of the [Manila Police District], naka-standby yung members  ng Police Station 5 kung
saan 'yung may jurisdiction sa Padre Faura at the same time 'yung
District Public Safety Battalion," PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor said.

"The policy of maximum tolerance is being implemented," he added.

Asked about the possible deployment of police officers who are members of the religious group to the rally site, Mayor said, "There is no prohibition for police officers to be deployed in a particular situation."

Mayor said police officers who are members of the Iglesia ni Cristo are not allowed to join the protest.

"Ang pulis kasi is not allowed to rally. Ang trabaho namin is
magmaintain ng peace and order. Iyon ang nakalagay sa trabaho ng isang pulis," Mayor said.

Asked about the possible sanctions for policemen who would join the rally, Mayor said, "Well, there are specific provisions kung meron
ganun, sanctions that policemen are not considering the job of a
policeman."

Pressed for comment on the case of police officers who are off-duty, he said, "Hindi nga pwede ang pulis na mag-rally."

Whether on-duty or off-duty?  "Yes. Ang trabaho namin ay magpatupad ng batas at magmaintain ng peace and order."

"As you can see wala namang mga pulis na sumasama sa rally. if you want to ipahayag or to express our opinions... may system kami sa loob,
internal," Mayor said. —NB, GMA News