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STUDENTS and members of militant groups will stage a “truth”
protest action today at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.
Leaders of the mass action said they are
expecting about 10,000 participants today, with student contingents
from almost all universities and colleges, particularly those from
the University Belt area.
One of the expected participants, the Bagong
Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), said that while today’s mass action
may be modest compared to the huge February 29 mass action in Makati,
it will send a clear message that the people are continuing their
communal action in the fight against corruption.
“Malacañang is hoping that the Lenten break
and summer vacation will break the momentum of protest actions.
However, with so many unanswered questions and new issues coming up,
it is too early for Malacañang to rejoice,” Bayan
Secretary-General Renato Reyes Jr. said.
Those who are expected to attend today’s mass
action, according to Reyes, are religious leaders, people from the
business community, students, urban poor, union workers, film
industry workers and other professionals.
Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday
assured the protestors that their rights will be respected.
“We have the highest respect for your rights
to speech and assembly. We will let you do that. All available space
at the Liwasan, we’re giving it to you. We will provide you with a
peaceful environment,” the mayor assured them.
The Manila Police District will deploy more than
2,000 unarmed policemen, 25 of which will be assigned to provide
security within the immediate vicinity of the mass action. The rest,
all carrying shields and batons, will be assigned to the city hall
and Mehan Garden.
Lawyer Adel Tamano, president of the city-funded
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, sought “maximum care” for the
students taking part in the mass action, particularly for those
participating for the first time.
-- Rommel C. Lontayao
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