Malacañang asks ASEAN protesters: Defer rallies, welcome delegates instead
Representatives of ASEAN member countries gather for the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in Cebu on Friday, May 8, 2026. Jervis Manahan, ABS-CBN NewsMANILA — Malacañang requested protesters to defer their planned demonstrations during the country’s hosting of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in November.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recognizes the right to free speech and peaceful assembly but hopes protesters express their grievances at some other time.
“Ang pagkakaroon po ng event na malaki na ganito ay sasalamin kung anong klaseng mga Pilipino tayo. Mas magandang i-welcome natin ang ating mga bisita. At kung kayo naman po ay mayroong hinaing, ito naman ay maaari ninyo namang sabihin sa ibang araw,” Castro said in a press briefing on Wednesday, September 23.
“Pero liliwanagin ko – baka magkaroon na naman ng misinterpretation itong ating sinasabi – ito ay isang hiling; hindi po ito pagdidikta,” she added.
Castro also quoted the Philippine National Police as assuring readiness to secure the high-level summit which world leaders are expected to attend.
“Our security preparations are ongoing with personnel working closely with concerned government agencies, local government units and other security partners to ensure proper deployment, security coverage and readiness to respond to any situation,” Castro said quoting the PNP.
“The PNP assures the public that we are taking this responsibility seriously. We will remain alert, professional and ready to help ensure the safe, peaceful and orderly conduct of the summit,” she added.