MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang on Thursday defended the Philippine National Police (PNP) for using water cannon to disperse "Occupy Mendiola” protesters.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the police exercised maximum tolerance towards the protesters.
 
“The Philippine National Police has exercised a wide berth of tolerance for them. The fact that it happened again on the second day showed the tolerance the police has accorded to the [protesters] notwithstanding the fact that there was no permit in the area,” Lacierda said.  

Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) earlier condemned the government’s actions against youth demonstrators who took part in a “campout” to protest the growing hunger and poverty in the country.

The youth activists marched to Mendiola Bridge on Tuesday but were blocked by riot police using truncheons and water cannons.

On Wednesday, the activists again attempted to reach Mendiola but were once again stopped by police.

At least 10 protesters were hurt while 5 more were arrested and brought to the Manila Police District (MPD). Seven injured policemen were also rushed to the MPD's clinic.