Police arrested 113 people during an anti-corruption rally in Manila on Sunday, September 21, held in line with the National Day of Protest. Authorities said the arrests stemmed from violent acts in several protest areas, including Ayala Bridge, Mendiola, and CM Recto.
According to the Manila Police District, 40 individuals were taken into custody at Ayala Bridge. Of those, 38 were adults, while two were minors later turned over to the Manila Department of Social Workers.
In Mendiola, police reported 21 arrests, with 14 adults and seven minors among them. The minors will undergo determination of discernment procedures to assess accountability.
At CM Recto, authorities said 41 people were detained, including 13 adults and 28 minors.
Those arrested face multiple charges, including illegal assembly, violations of the Public Assembly Act, disobedience to authority, direct assault, malicious mischief, and serious physical injury.
Interior Secretary Junvic Remulla said in an interview that some protesters allegedly planned to breach the perimeter at Ayala Bridge to gain access to Malacañang Palace and set it on fire. Police have not released further details on the alleged plot.
The arrests highlight growing tensions during public demonstrations tied to corruption issues. With a significant number of minors involved, the incident has sparked questions about youth participation in rallies and the legal processes that follow.
Authorities said they are preparing formal charges against those detained as investigations continue.
