Protesters warned: You will be arrested

MANILA - Authorities have warned leftist groups who are reportedly planning to stage a fluvial protest near the venue of the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit that they will be arrested.

Lieutenant Jomark Angue, spokesperson of Task Unit on Maritime Security of the Committee on Security Peace and Order, Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSPOEPR), said a no-sail zone has been imposed in the waters of H2O Hotel Manila to Okada Hotel, New Seaside Drive in Parañaque City from November 5 to 16 as part of security measures for the Asean summit.

During the same period, shoreline from H2O Hotel to the Pasig River are designated as controlled zones in which all vessels coming in and out will be escorted by Philippine Coast Guard patrol boats.

“Umaapila ako sa mga may-ari ng motor-banca, huwag na po kayong makipagspalaran baka malagay sa alanganin ang mga buhay ng inyong pasahero lalo na kung hindi naman sila marunong lumangoy,” Angue said.

“Once you are spotted riding in a motor banca or joining the fluvial protests, we will not think twice to apprehend you. Your bancas will be impounded and the banca owners will have to pay penalties,” he added.

Cuy reiterated that assemblies and other forms of protests can only be done in designated areas.

He also reminded the foreign tourists not to take part in any mass ac-

tions as it could serve as ground for immediate deportation.

“While we are hospitable hosts, we expect you to abide by our laws and rules and one of them is not to participate in rallies,” said Cuy.

Angue issued the warning after receiving reports that leftist groups were planning to stage a fluvial protest near the summit venue. SunStar Philippines