PNP warns anti-vaxxers against mass protest

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has cautioned anti-vaccination groups against staging a mass protest due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

PNP chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar cited reports of a social media mobilization by anti-vaxxers planning a rally against the government's vaccination program.

Eleazar emphasized that while freedom of expression and the decision to refuse vaccination are respected, actions that compromise public health will not be tolerated.

The PNP will monitor any planned protest for violations of health protocols, especially with the implementation of stricter measures in Metro Manila from August 6 to 20.

Eleazar warned that such a protest poses a significant risk to public health, particularly with the presence of the more transmissible Delta variant.

He urged the supposed protesters to cancel their rally, stating that their right to protest ends where the public's right to safety from COVID-19 begins.