May 1, 2006 · Posted in: In the News

Labor Day protests end

LABOR Day protesters in Metro Manila failed to reach Mendiola today, as thousands of policemen blocked the streets in Recto Avenue.

Thousands of ralliers, led by the Kilusang Mayo Uno, converged at Liwasang Bonifacio late in the morning, planning to march all the way to the Mendiola bridge.

The police had earlier declared Mendiola as a no-rally zone but the protesters insisted on defying the prohibition.

Rally leaders tried to negotiate with the police to let them through but failed.


As of 5:30 p.m., television reporters at the scene said the ralliers had begun to voluntarily disperse. There were no untoward incidents during the rally.

Manila mayor Lito Atienza congratulated the police and the ralliers for what he said was a peaceful demonstration.

Natupad ang ating inaasahan,” Atienza told ANC News.

He also said that Mendiola will remain a no-rally zone. He insisted that there were freedom parks in Manila that can be used instead.

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