Security tightened around Mendiola in Manila as rally continues

The Philippine National Police (PNP) tightened security Wednesday around Mendiola in Manila City as the protest action in the area entered its second day, prompting road closures that has affected commuters heading to work and school.

In a Balitanghali report, several roads surrounding Mendiola, including portions of Recto Avenue, Legarda Street, and Casal Street, were closed and cordoned off with barricades, metal sheets, and barbed wire.

Several students and employees said they left home earlier than usual and had to walk farther because of the street closures.

According to Manila Police District (MPD) spokesperson Police Major Philipp Ines, security is routinely tightened around Mendiola whenever large-scale protests are held because of its proximity to Malacañang.

Malacañang maintained that there is no threat to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., although access to the Palace has also been tightened as a precaution.

Meanwhile in Quezon City, traffic was heavy along the northbound lanes of EDSA-White Plains Avenue after a bus used by rally participants extended beyond concrete barriers, tightening the roadway for motorists.

Before 8:30 a.m., the bus was moved back, while personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) repositioned the concrete barriers, allowing more lanes to be reopened and easing traffic flow in the area. — VDV, GMA News