The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) announced that airspace above Rizal Park in Manila and the Edsa Shrine in Quezon City will be closed to aircraft and drones from 6 am on Sunday, September 21, until 6 am Monday, September 22. This restriction spans a 15-nautical-mile radius from the locations, reaching an altitude of 10,000 feet, coinciding with large anti-corruption protests.
The protests follow congressional hearings that uncovered corruption in flood-control projects, sparking public outrage and calls for accountability. This issue strikes a chord with many, as some regions remain flooded months after severe typhoons hit the country in July.
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Though most demonstrations have been small, Sunday’s protests align with the annual remembrance of the 1972 martial law declaration by former President Marcos, expected to attract large crowds.
Protests in Metro Manila and Nationwide
Two major events are planned in the capital on Sunday. At 9 am, Rizal Park will host Baha sa Luneta: Aksyon na Laban sa Korapsyon (Flood at Luneta: Action against Corruption). Later, at 2 pm, the Trillion Peso March will occur at the Edsa People Power Monument, with organizers expecting about 30,000 participants. Church leaders will lead both events, supported by civic groups and student organizations.
Meanwhile, the Edsa Shrine will maintain its regular Sunday Mass schedule. Protesters can gather in designated areas outside, but slogans and chants are not allowed inside. Tarpaulins and banners are permitted as long as they are stationary during services. The shrine office and adoration chapel will be closed that day.
Similar protests are planned nationwide. Demonstrations will occur at Plaza Independencia in Cebu City and Jaro Plaza in Iloilo City, with marches leading to the provincial capitol. In Davao City, Duterte supporters will hold a Pray for the Philippines march at 3 pm in Rizal Park, advocating for the former president’s return amid his ICC detention over the war on drugs.
Security Measures
Authorities are enhancing security across the nation. According to GMA News, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has dispatched 50,000 officers countrywide, collaborating closely with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), on red alert since September 12. Although no credible threats have been identified, both agencies remain prepared for any disturbances.
Foreign governments have advised caution. Australia issued a warning about a “heightened risk of demonstrations and civil unrest,” recommending citizens avoid large gatherings on September 21. The US Embassy in Manila issued a similar advisory to its nationals the previous day.
