MANILA  – The influential Iglesia ni Cristo has scheduled a three-day protest action at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park on Nov. 17 to 19, expected to be attended by some 300,000 members and followers.

Police forces in Metro Manila will be on highest security alert status to ensure peace and order at the three-day protest action by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

A total of 9,829 NCRPO personnel will be deployed to secure the area, including civil disturbance management teams, traffic enforcement units, K9 teams, medical support and standby quick reaction forces.

The City of Manila, meanwhile, pledged to provide perimeter support and mobilize 14 ambulances and rescue medics within the vicinity of Rizal Park.

At a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said past protest actions will be used as background in mapping out a security plan for the three-day protest action.

“In times of protest like this, the NCRPO declares full alert status. While this is a religious rally that we expect to be peaceful, our preparation will be complete which includes deployment of ambulances in cases of medical emergencies,” he added.

The rally was supposed to be held at the People Power Monument in Quezon City but later moved to the Rizal Park in Manila. The PNP is expecting more than 300,000 INC members to take part.

“We appeal for understanding and cooperation from the public, especially from those attending. Simple acts like complying with security checks, avoiding prohibited items, and looking out for one another will help us keep the event safe,” Tuaño said.

The PNP also reminded the public to expect road adjustments and heavy foot traffic around Rizal Park and its surrounding areas and advised motorists to take alternate routes once traffic advisories are issued.