Isko Moreno warns vs. ‘mob rule’ after youth groups storm DPWH office

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso reminded protesters who trooped the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Central Office in the Port Area that their actions carry legal consequences.

In a media briefing on Sept. 4, Domagoso said he has ordered Manila Police District (MPD) Director Brigadier General Arnold Abad to prevent any escalation of unrest, stressing that mob rule will not be tolerated in the city.

During the protest, members of several progressive youth groups hurled rotten fruits and water balloons at the DPWH compound amid controversies surrounding the country’s flood control projects.

“My job as the mayor and local chief executive is to keep the peace and order situation of our city,” Domagoso said.

“I will not allow disturbing, destroying offices of government and particularly, allow to destroy the peace of any individual residing in the City of Manila,” he added.

He said those who wish to express grievances are free to do so in designated venues.

“Kung gusto nilang ilabas ang kanilang mga hinaing at ang kanilang mga damdamin, malaya nilang magagawa iyon sa Maynila, doon sa aming mga freedom park,” he said.

The mayor emphasized that demonstrators must take responsibility for their actions.

“The youth groups staged the protest to denounce alleged corruption and neglect in DPWH’s flood control projects, blaming the agency for persistent flooding in Metro Manila.