Ex-General Romeo Poquiz Detained After People Power Protest
ROMEO POQUIZ — The Retired Major General and convenor of the United People’s Initiative (UPI), was arrested on Monday, January 5, 2025, at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City upon returning from a vacation in Bangkok, Thailand.
The arrest was made in connection with a sedition case filed against him, stemming from his participation in a protest at the People Power Monument in Quezon City on November 16 and 17, 2025. Police served the arrest warrant to Poquiz upon his arrival, and his legal team reported that the recommended bail for the case is approximately P48,000. Following the arrest, Poquiz is expected to be brought to Camp Crame for processing.
Poquiz’s lawyer, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, criticized the arrest, arguing that the wrong person was being targeted. In a media interview, Topacio pointedly addressed President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., suggesting that while the President had fulfilled his promise that someone would be jailed, the decision to arrest Poquiz was misguided. Topacio explained that Poquiz had merely expressed public grievances on behalf of ordinary Filipinos and was not involved in corruption or theft. He further criticized those who may have advised the President to authorize the arrest, calling such guidance “foolish” and urging that it be reconsidered.
“Sir, medyo nagkamali po ata kayo. Mr. President, kung sino man po ang nag-advise sa inyo na mag-proceed against Gen. Poquiz, vine-ventilate lamang po n’ya ang saloobin ng mga pangkaraniwang Pilipino,” Topacio said. He added: “Eh kung sino man po ang nag-advice sa inyo non, eh bangag po ‘yon. Tanggalin n’yo po yun.”
In response to his arrest, Poquiz posted a brief message on his Facebook account, confirming that he had been detained by the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) and was being transported to Camp Crame. He concluded his post with a patriotic remark, expressing continued support for the Filipino people.