Law Summary
Historical Context and Public Memory
- The Martial Law era beginning with Proclamation No. (s. 1972) is remembered for gross human rights violations, arbitrary state interventions, corruption, and disregard of civil liberties.
- This history has left a lasting impact on the collective memory of the Filipino people.
Government Recognition of Public Concern
- The administration acknowledges the public’s fear and indignation against the recurrence of such violations and government shortcomings.
Constitutional Rights to Protest
- Article III, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, the right to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for redress of grievances.
Authority to Declare National Interest Status
- Executive Order No. 292 (s. 1987) empowers the President to declare, via proclamation, conditions or statuses of public moment or interest.
Declaration of National Day of Protest
- The President declared September 21, 2017, as a National Day of Protest in solidarity with calls against government excesses and shortcomings.
- The declaration supports the public desire for integrity, efficiency, and accountability in governance.
Guidelines for Protesters
- Protesters are urged to act lawfully and maintain peaceful conduct during rallies, marches, and demonstrations.
- Vigilance against infiltrators who may instigate violence to provoke authorities is emphasized.
- Protesters are cautioned to avoid causing undue inconvenience to fellow citizens.
Instructions to Law Enforcement
- Police and law enforcement are ordered to observe maximum restraint.
- Authorities must maintain appropriate distance to allow protesters full exercise of their lawful rights.
Instructions to Local Government Units
- Local government units are instructed to dispense with permit requirements for public assemblies, marches, and demonstrations on the National Day of Protest.
Formalization and Authentication
- The proclamation was signed by the President and the Acting Executive Secretary on September 19, 2017, in Manila.
- The official seal of the Republic of the Philippines was affixed to the document.