Interior Secretary Confirms Majority of Rock-Throwing Protesters Near Malacañang Are Minors

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated on Sunday that the majority of the masked individuals who threw rocks at police personnel in the Ayala and Mendiola areas were primarily minors. Speaking to reporters on Mendiola Bridge, Remulla revealed that initial intelligence suggested the youths intended to breach the security perimeter and reach Malacañang Palace.

He explained, "Their plan was to penetrate the perimeter and set fire to the palace; however, we adhered strictly to established rules and regulations." Remulla assured that law enforcement managed to disperse the group and maintained the security line despite the unrest. "We held our position and will continue to do so," he added.

Regarding those apprehended, Remulla confirmed that all individuals taken into custody will undergo interviews conducted in the presence of representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to safeguard their rights. "The interviews will involve the DSWD to ensure that their rights are not infringed upon," he noted.

In a separate radio interview, Remulla disclosed that 19 individuals had been arrested, all confirmed minors. Although the identities are yet to be fully verified, he indicated that the agitators appeared to be between 15 and 17 years old. He further revealed that some protesters escalated to throwing Molotov cocktails. "Despite the risks, we exercised maximum tolerance even as our officers were targeted," Remulla emphasized.