(Eagle News) — Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Thursday said today was the “opportune time for government to hear the voice of the governed,” as rallyists take to the streets to air their grievances.
“The event is a healthy exercise in democracy,” he said, noting that it was a day when “people from all walks of life and persuasion can freely hold marches, demonstrations, public assemblies, and all forms of mass action to express their grievances against perceived or actual excesses and/or shortcomings of the government.”
He urged rallyists to “maintain peaceful conduct and avoid causing any undue convenience” during the conduct of their rallies on the first national day of protest, though.
Abella said the statement applies to both critics of the administration and to its supporters.
“Police will observe maximum restraint and maintain distance from mass action,” he said.
Malacañang has declared no work in the executive branch and local government units to allow even government employees to join the rallies.
The Supreme Court also declared no work in courts nationwide on this day.
Classes in public schools and state universities and colleges have also been suspended.
The suspension of classes and work in private schools and private companies were left to the discretion of these institutions.
