The tension erupted on September 21 when youth protesters and police clashed near Malacañang. Up to 244 people, including 103 minors, were arrested for violent anti-corruption protests.
According to the NCRPO, a hip-hop rapper is suspected of possibly inciting the youth. Several poles were destroyed, traffic lights were broken, and tires and containers were burned. There was also throwing of rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at the police. One person was stabbed and died, while another was shot and is currently in the hospital.
Those arrested may face charges of sedition, arson, illegal assembly, direct assault, and illegal possession of explosives. The minors will be subjected to DSWD evaluation to determine if they can be charged as being in conflict with the law.
Officials also revealed that there was a bombing threat from a local group, prompting the deployment of more than 400 plainclothes police as a precaution. Online groups such as Anonymous PH and Black Mask March are being monitored, which are said to have exacerbated the unrest.
According to some leaders, there are those who may have paid or incited the youth to go wild. The government has assured that all those involved will be held accountable, especially those who used youth as tools in violent protest actions. Meanwhile, some progressive groups have said that the people's anger is a result of severe flooding, mismanagement of funds, and the blatant luxury of those in power.
