Violence marred what began as peaceful anti-corruption protests outside the Malacañang Palace on Sunday, as masked individuals clashed with police and set a trailer truck on fire.
The government condemned the actions, calling those involved criminals seeking to discredit the administration.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to take immediate action and ensure that all troublemakers were apprehended. Palace press officer Claire Castro described the perpetrators as outlaws, not genuine protesters, and accused them of attempting to bring down the government.
The confrontations erupted despite police instructions to exercise maximum tolerance. Masked individuals in black shirts tried to push past anti-riot officers guarding the roads leading to Malacañang. They threw stones and set ablaze the wheels of a parked trailer truck near Ayala Bridge.
One of the stones struck dzBB broadcast journalist Manny Vargas. Renato Reyes Jr., president of activist group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, was also hit in the face by a rock while his group concluded their rally in Mendiola. Reyes confirmed that the violent individuals were not affiliated with his organisation.
Some of the protesters carried a flag bearing the Straw Hat Jolly Roger from the Japanese series One Piece and wore straw hats as part of their attire. Police have yet to determine their affiliations.
Authorities rounded up at least 20 people, including three minors. In total, thirty police officers sustained injuries during the clashes. Public property, including a street light, was also damaged.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Manila, where peaceful demonstrations have occasionally been hijacked by violent elements. Government officials have vowed to ensure accountability and prevent further disruptions while maintaining the right of citizens to protest.
The events have drawn criticism from both political observers and human rights advocates, who called for calm and a clear distinction between legitimate protesters and those engaging in criminal activity.
