Filipinos started protest demonstrations today to mark the start of this year’s Balikatan military exercises between US and Philippine soldiers.

In an advisory sent to reporters, the multisectoral umbrella Bagong Alyansang Makabayan said that protests will be held in Manila and the cities of Marawi, Iligan, Cagayan de Or, Valencia and Malaybalay in Bukidnon, Butuan, Gingoog, Davao, General Santos, Sulu, Pikit and Cotabato City.

House Deputy Minority Leader Satur Ocampo and Gabriela Rep. Liza Maza will take part in the Mindanao protests.

Bayan assured authorities that the protests will be peaceful but militant, and asked that the people’s rights to free expression and free assembly be respected.

More news on the protests here.