‘Police mishandled EDSA 40 celebration’

Protesters calling for the accountability of public officials allegedly involved in corruption linked to flood control projects clash with the police as they march to EDSA Shrine during the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on February 25, 2026 (Michael Varcas / The Philippine STAR)

MANILA, Philippines — A youth group is calling for an independent investigation into the police’s alleged mishandling of the 40th anniversary of the EDSA people power uprising.

Citing the arrest of activist Three Odeña and rights advocate Edel Parducho, the group said videos showed the two trying to calm tensions between the law enforcers and demonstrators.

Odeña and Parducho were reportedly released on bail on Saturday.

“Time and again, police are twisting the facts. Thousands of participants were physically assaulted and victimized by their unprovoked and excessive use of force,” the group said.

“Each and every one of them can stand witness to debunk the police chief’s preposterous claim of maximum tolerance,” the Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan said.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has said PNP personnel exercised maximum tolerance, but the protesters physically assaulted the anti-riot forces.

Nartatez maintained that the activists were arrested in accordance with standard police procedures.

— Mark Ernest Villeza

*****

Credit belongs to: www.philstar.com