ZAMBOANGA CITY – The city government, through the City Administrator’s Office, has granted a permit for a candle lighting and noise barrage event organized by a group of concerned citizens sympathetic to former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte. The gathering is set to take place tonight, March 12, at Freedom Park in Abong-Abong, Barangay Pasonanca.
City Administrator Atty. Wendell Sotto clarified that R.T. Lim Boulevard was not deemed a viable venue for the assembly due to its status as a major thoroughfare accommodating large vehicles, including those traveling to and from the seaport. He stressed that holding such an event in the area could disrupt traffic flow and pose safety risks to participants and the public.
“It has been a long-standing practice that activities of this nature are held at the Freedom Park in Abong-Abong as it provides a safer and more suitable environment for participants to express their views without compromising public safety and order,” Sotto stated.
Additionally, Atty. Sotto refuted claims suggesting that the city government had denied a permit for the event. He urged the public to be cautious about spreading false or misleading information, reiterating that the local government merely required the event to be held at a more appropriate location.
“We urge the public to exercise caution in spreading false or misleading information. The city government did not deny any permit; rather, we emphasized the need to hold the assembly at a more suitable location to ensure the safety and security of all involved,” he said.
Sotto further assured that the city government remains committed to upholding the public’s right to freedom of expression while ensuring peace and order.
“Our priority remains the safety and security of everyone involved while upholding the public’s right to freedom of expression. The city government remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the exercise of democratic rights is conducted in a peaceful and organized manner,” he concluded.
Authorities have advised attendees to adhere to safety guidelines and cooperate with security personnel during the event.
