By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Yesterday’s “National Day of Protest” was generally peaceful, according to one local police chief.

Escalante City police chief, Police Chief Inspector Rollie Pondevilla, said the re-enactment of the 1985 Escalate Massacre in his jurisdiction was executed without any eruptions of violence.

He added, the Philippine Army and local law enforcement ensured the safety of protesters and spectators.

Meanwhile, Christian Tuayon, leader of the Negros chapter of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), estimated 1,000 protesters participated in rallies held in Kabankalan City and Bacolod City.

He added, protesters demonstrated against the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, which took place last year; along with sending a message to President Rodrigo Duterte to refrain from declaring Martial Law nationwide.

Yesterday’s activities were part of the 45th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law by Marcos. Duterte subsequently deemed it a “National Day of Protest.”/DGB, WDJ