PNP warns arrests for burning effigies during Sona

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said on Saturday that arrests could occur if protesters burn effigies during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Monday, July 28.

Last week, PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III warned against burning effigies, citing environmental laws and suggesting potential arrests.

Fajardo emphasized that they hope protesters will refrain from this act to avoid tension and friction during the Sona protests.

Despite the warning, Fajardo also reminded police to implement maximum tolerance in their approach.

In a previous incident during the 2023 Sona protests, Quezon City Police District filed a complaint against an artist for burning an effigy of Marcos, citing environmental laws like Republic Act 8749 and RA 9003.

However, the city prosecutor dismissed the case, questioning whether burning an effigy constitutes incinerating solid waste under these laws.