MMDA moves concrete barriers on Edsa, adds one more lane amid INC rally

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 97Objective 923 days ago

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) repositioned concrete barriers along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (Edsa) near an unsanctioned Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) protest rally, opening an additional lane to manage traffic. Thousands of people gathered near the Edsa People Power Monument, causing road closures and heavy congestion. The rally, which took place on June 30, involved participants wearing shirts related to upcoming INC events in 2025. As of late Tuesday night, some protesters had left, while others remained overnight, setting up tents and sleeping mats. The INC expressed support for Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who faces potential charges of plunder linked to alleged illegal campaign donations totaling PHP75 million.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the event, detailing both the logistical actions taken by the MMDA and the context surrounding the INC rally, including their stated positions and the legal issues involving Senator Marcoleta. There is no overtly biased language or selective sourcing.

Why these scores (Factual 97 · Objective 92): Accurate description of MMDA's actions and crowd estimates. Maintains neutrality in reporting the situation without taking sides in the dispute.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 96Objective 884 days ago

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) placed its units in the National Capital Region (NCR) on red alert in response to a large protest along Edsa in Manila. The protest was organized by members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), who gathered at the People Power Monument to demand transparency, accountability, justice, and peace. This followed the Office of the Ombudsman's decision to file a nonbailable plunder case against Senator Rodante Marcoleta before the Sandiganbayan. Authorities deployed police and traffic personnel to manage the situation and maintain public order. The AFP emphasized its commitment to supporting civil authorities, ensuring public safety, and maintaining the rule of law.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the event, citing the AFP's actions and the reasons behind the protest without taking a clear stance on either side. It includes direct quotes from the AFP and mentions the context of the protest related to legal proceedings against a senator, presenting a

Why these scores (Factual 96 · Objective 88): Factual account of AFP's response. Provides context about the legal basis for the protest. Slight bias in describing the protest as calling for 'transparency, accountability, justice and peace' which frames it positively.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 753 days ago

An unannounced rally by thousands of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) supporters for Senator Rodante Marcoleta disrupted traffic in Metro Manila on Tuesday, leading to clashes with police and the arrest of at least four individuals. The protest, which occurred without a required permit under Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, was allowed to continue for several hours before the Quezon City government granted a permit for a second day of demonstrations. Authorities criticized the lack of coordination and permits, with MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III stating that the organizers had not sought approval beforehand. The event caused significant traffic congestion and raised questions about the enforcement of public assembly regulations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the incident without overtly favoring any political group. It reports on the disruption caused by the rally, the lack of permits, and the subsequent administrative response, maintaining neutrality in its framing. While the subject involves a religious group,

Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): Lower factuality due to speculative claims about the rally being 'permitless' and 'surprise' without clear evidence. Objectivity is lower due to framing the rally as 'show of force' and mentioning arrests without neutrality.