Progressive groups push through with SONA protests amid rally ban

Progressive groups, including Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), will proceed with their planned protests during President Rodrigo Duterte's 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, despite a ban on rallies.

KMP chairman Danilo Ramos stated that no threats will deter their actions, citing worsening unemployment, poverty, hunger, and alleged crimes by the administration as reasons for public protest.

Ramos also claimed President Duterte has rechanneled billions in public funds to cronies, leading to economic bankruptcy.

Bayan Secretary General Renato Reyes Jr. asserted that quarantine guidelines should not be used to prevent peaceful assembly, stating the Philippine National Police (PNP) should respect the rights to assembly and freedom of expression.

Lawyer Aaron Pedrosa of Sanlakas argued that holding public demonstrations during the pandemic has no basis in law or the Constitution, calling the ban a "gag order" without legal foundation.

Despite the defiance, the KMP assured that health protocols and physical distancing would be observed during the protests along Commonwealth Avenue.