Police close Mendiola bridge to traffic

MANILA, Philippines - Police on Wednesday night closed off Mendiola Bridge near Malacañang as part of preparations for the celebration of Labor Day Thursday. Radio dzBB's Allan Gatus reported that the Manila Police District had the gates closed as early as 6:30 p.m. and had placed railings there. The MPD also deployed members from its police stations in Santa Ana and Santa Mesa to keep watch over the bridge and make sure militants do not sneak in during the night. Police are expected to further augment their ranks there Thursday. Metro Manila police are now on full alert while police nationwide will go on heightened alert at 8 a.m. Thursday. Militant groups will be allowed to hold rallies at Mendiola starting Thursday noon. - GMANews.TV