Tensions escalated in Davao City on Sunday evening as members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) staged a massive rally, blocking the Diversion Road leading to Davao International Airport, according to several media reports.
The standoff between the protesters and forces from Philippine National Police (PNP) in Davao continues to unfold, with the situation intensifying by the minute. Protesters could be heard screaming, furious at law enforcement authorities.
Flames have been spotted at the scene as rallyists burned some tires, according to a GMA Integrated News livestream on YouTube. The protesters admitted to burning the tires in retaliation of the tear gas fired by policemen.
The rally, which has caused significant traffic disruption, shows no signs of dispersing despite efforts by law enforcement to manage the situation.
According to a Facebook post by MindaNews, PNP-Davao denied reports that there was a lockdown in all the entry points in Davao City. Authorities said they are exercising maximum tolerance amid the tense situation.
“There is no truth that the Philippine National Police has locked down the entry points in Davao City,” spokesperson Police Major Catherine Dela Rey said.
“They [KOJC members] are the ones blocking the national highway.”
The protest stemmed from the PNP’s decision to raid the KOJC compound on Saturday in search of the religious organization’s fugitive leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, which resulted in the death of one of their members and the hospitalization of others.
Travelers heading to the airport are advised to seek alternative routes or delay their travel plans as the situation remains fluid.
As of this posting, police reportedly deployed a long-range acoustic device to disperse the rallyists.
One of the protesters who was speaking on behalf of the group said they have decided to stay on the streets.
“Kahit na barilin niyo kami ngayon, manatili kami rito, saksi ang buong sanlibutan (Even if you shoot us, we will stay here, as the universe is our witness),” he said, addressing the police officers at the scene.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. More updates will follow as the situation progresses.
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