Philippines: Testimony points to torture and other abuses by police as new protests loom
Philippines police unlawfully targeted protesters with unnecessary and excessive force during anti-corruption marches in September, according to harrowing new testimony gathered by Amnesty International ahead of fresh protests planned across the country this weekend.
Ten people interviewed by Amnesty International detailed physical abuse – including violations that may amount to torture and other ill-treatment – by state forces following demonstrations in the capital Manila on 21 September 2025. The research comes as thousands prepare to return to the streets on 30 November in renewed protests against government corruption.
“The disturbing evidence we have gathered of unlawful force unleashed by the police against protesters and others on 21 September makes a mockery of the Philippine government’s repeated claim that it exercises ‘maximum tolerance’ during protests,” said Jerrie Abella, Amnesty International Regional Campaigner.
“Victims have described how police punched, kicked and hit people – including children – with batons as they were arrested, with appalling ill-treatment continuing in detention. The police must change course and respect people’s right to protest on 30 November and beyond.”