At least two people were injured and five others arrested on Sunday after police blocked demonstrators attempting to reach the venue of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit in the Philippine capital, according to local media reports.
The confrontation occurred near the Philippine International Convention Center, where regional leaders are gathering for the summit amid heightened security and planned demonstrations by several activist organisations.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said at least five protesters were taken into custody after refusing to leave the area surrounding the summit venue, the Manila Times reported.
Authorities did not immediately provide further details about the circumstances of the injuries or the identities of those arrested.
The incident came as various civil society and rights organisations prepared demonstrations coinciding with the regional gathering, including protests opposing the visit of US President Donald Trump.
Student organisations have also announced plans to stage walkouts during the summit, while transport group PISTON has scheduled a transport strike as part of the planned protest activities.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. appealed to demonstrators to express their views peacefully and responsibly, emphasising the importance of maintaining public safety during the international event.
The police said they recognised and respected citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly but urged protest organisers to coordinate with local authorities and comply with existing regulations governing public gatherings.
Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened across Manila for the summit, with the government deploying nearly 23,000 security personnel, including more than 19,000 police officers.
The deployment covers summit venues, hotels accommodating visiting delegations, transportation routes and other strategically important locations.
Authorities said the extensive security measures were intended to protect participating leaders and delegations while ensuring the smooth conduct of the regional gathering.
Nartatez directed police commanders to maintain operational readiness throughout the summit period, particularly in anticipation of possible emergencies, traffic disruptions and security incidents.
He also instructed officers to ensure that any intervention against demonstrators was supported by clear legal grounds.
The police chief reiterated that security personnel should balance their responsibility to maintain public order with the constitutional protections afforded to peaceful protesters.
The incident highlights the security challenges facing Philippine authorities as they host the ASEAN summit amid demonstrations involving political activists, students and transport organisations.
With further protests and a transport strike planned during the summit period, police have been instructed to remain on alert while facilitating the regional gathering and managing public demonstrations.