Incoming Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Angel Lagdameo believes the violent dispersal of the rallyists was not necessary, especially since the gathering was meant for prayer and procession.

"The presence of three bishops, of some sisters and priests there, was for the prayer assembly and for peaceful procession to San Sebastian Church. It was a patriotic manifestation of concern for our country," Lagdameo said. "Because it was a prayer assembly and peaceful procession, the violent dispersal of the participants was uncalled for and objectionable."

He added: "The legality of the Calibrated Preemptive Response must be questioned before the appropriate court."

The Inter-Faith Movement (IFM) composed of Catholic and Protestant Church leaders also strongly denounced the excessive use of violence against religious groups and prominent personalities.

"We deplore the excessive and unnecessary use of violence of police in the series of rallies in Manila. With Arroyo’s selfish hold to power the violent suppression of the people’s right to rally has become her marching order. But we will continue to exercise our right to rally against all forms of corruption and tyranny," the group said.

"CPR — Church People call for the Resignation of Arroyo — is our message of defiance to Arroyo’s CPR and other repressive schemes," IFM said.

Caloocan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez said, "It was unfortunate but we look at it as an evident display of what is happening in our country."

KME plans to file a complaint against those who ordered the use of water cannon to disperse the rallyists.

"We condemn the dastardly act of the Arroyo administration in the strongest possible term," KME chairman Jaime Regalario said in a text message.

"We shall file complaints and hold an indignation rally," he added.