Freedom parks are spaces within the city where the government has no authority over political gatherings, demonstrations, and rallies staged by the people. Below are some of the most visited free speech zones in Metro Manila where 12.8 million Filipinos reside
Freedom of speech is a right duly protected by the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Article three, section four of the Bill of Rights states that "No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances."
The right to free speech is an essential contributor to the Filipino government confined and regulated by a system of checks and balances. It is through this that the governed can amplify their concerns and express their dismay over policies they deem intolerable.
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In the Philippines, every city and municipality is required to designate at least one suitable freedom park or mall in their respective jurisdictions so people can convene and protest without the need for permits.
This was declared by the Batasang Pambansa no. 800 which grants Filipinos the right to "assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances is essential and vital to the strength and stability of the State." To this end, the law also notes that the "State shall ensure the free exercise of such right without prejudice to the rights of others to life, liberty and equal protection of the law."
Furthermore, Batasang Pambansa no. 800 also protects the citizens against police brutality. By imposing "maximum tolerance," the military, police, and other peace-keeping authorities shall observe the highest degree of restraint during public assemblies or dispersal of the same.
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In this write-up, Tatler lists the freedom parks designated in Metro Manila:
1. Plaza Miranda
The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, which Filipinos fondly call the Quiapo Church, is one of the most famous basilicas in Manila; it also serves as the landmark of Plaza Miranda where some of the most memorable political upheavals took place.
On August 21, 1971, two grenades exploded in the Liberal Party (LP) rally in Plaza Miranda, killing nine people and wounding the opposition's top bets at the time. Among the wounded were Jovito Salonga, who would become the first Senate president after 1986 People Power; LP President Gerardo Roxas; Senators Eddie Ilarde and Eva Estrada-Kalaw; John Osmeña, who would also become senator after People Power; former Palawan congressman Ramon V. Mitra Jr., Councilor Ambrosio “King” Lorenzo Jr., and the LP candidates for mayor and vice mayor, Ramon Bagatsing Sr. and Martin B. Isidro.
Tatler Trivia: The Black Nazarene, a statue which depicts Jesus Christ carrying his cross, is said to be miraculous. Every year, at least 20 million Catholic devotees attend and witness its Traslación or "solemn transfer" from the church of San Nicolás de Tolentino in Intramuros to Quiapo.
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