Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that the September 21 riot in Mendiola involving minors was orchestrated by an organized group that paid participants to stir chaos, with the intent to destabilize the government.
In a media interview, Remulla revealed that children as young as 11 were recruited from the Quiapo area and paid ₱3,000 each to join the incident. “Mukhang lumalabas organized group… ang bayad nila sa mga bata ay 3,000 each. May mga videos pa kami na pinapakita nila mga pera nila at niyayabang sa social media,” he said.
He said initial findings show the group’s instruction was simple: reach the Palace if possible and burn it. “Ang instruction, kung kaya niyo umabot ng palasyo, sunugin niyo. Ganoon lang,” he added.
The DILG chief said the incident was not a political or cause-driven rally, but a paid disturbance with no clear ideological basis. “Hindi sila cause-oriented; money-oriented lang. Bayad lang kaya ang leadership at organization level nila, mababa lang.”
So far, 217 individuals are under investigation, including 95 minors. Remulla confirmed that testimonies, social media videos, and photos are being reviewed to identify those who organized and financed the riot.
Remulla confirmed that several names have surfaced, but clarified that no charges have been filed. “No one is exempt from being investigated… tinitingnan namin,” he said. “Kailangan may solid case build-up bago kami mag-prosecute.”
The possible charges include arson, destruction of property, inciting to sedition, and sedition. Police sustained injuries and were also attacked with tear gas, fireworks, and water reportedly sourced from canals. Only smoke grenades were used by police, said Remulla, and only for dispersal and deterrence. “Nakakaawa talaga ‘yung mga pulis natin… Binubuhusan sila sa mukha na galing sa poso negro,” he said. “Sila [rioters] ang nagdala ng tear gas.”
The Secretary warned the public of future attempts to infiltrate legitimate rallies. “Kapag may kilos-protesta ulit, pwedeng pasukin ulit… gusto nila mag-snowball ng suporta habang sinusunog nila ‘yung mga pasilidad ng gobyerno.”
He ended the interview by reinforcing the Marcos administration’s commitment to due process and the rule of law. “According nga kay Presidente, we are a nation of laws, not of men… Hindi pupwede ‘yung basta-basta kami magtuturo ng daliri.” He added, “We have a very liberal democracy, but we have to maintain its stability.”
The DILG continues its case build-up in coordination with law enforcement and the Department of Justice. Investigations are ongoing.
