The Pangasinan Police remains on heightened alert with ongoing demonstrations across the country triggered by the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Duterte is facing charges for alleged crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands in relation to his controversial war on drugs.

In Pangasinan, authorities are monitoring gatherings closely, including a prayer rally in Dagupan City on March 15 and a motorcade that started at Lingayen Baywalk on March 16.

“Mino-monitor natin ‘yung mga possible na nag-conduct ng mga rally o ‘yung mga kababayan natin na magbibigay ng sentimyento,” PCol. Rollyfer Capoquian, Pangasinan Police Provincial Director, said.

The police have advised pro-Duterte groups planning to stage rallies to coordinate with authorities to ensure public safety.

“Para masiguro natin na maging peaceful o hindi magkaroon ng untoward incident sa mga gatherings nila, nagdi-deploy tayo ng mga police personnel,” Capoquian added.

The Pangasinan Police is also prepared to send reinforcement to other areas in the country experiencing heightened political activity.

“Siguraduhin na maging responsable sila at maging maayos at hindi sila makakaabala sa kapwa nila kababayan dito sa probinsiya,” Capoquian said to protesters.

Authorities continue to urge the public to remain peaceful and respect the rule of law amid the current political climate.