Senate security all set for opening of impeachment trial, PNP says
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is all set in securing the opening of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte with the deployment of more cops at the Senate where protest actions are expected to be held.
Around 6,000 police officers have been deployed to secure the Senate complex and surrounding areas in Pasay City but additional police forces are expected to be placed on standby in case of any eventuality.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said all concerned police units have been directed to implement the organization's comprehensive security plan and remain on heightened alert throughout the proceedings.
“The Philippine National Police is fully prepared and has implemented a comprehensive security plan to ensure that the proceedings at the Senate remain orderly and secure,” said Nartatez.
“We have coordinated extensively with the Senate leadership and all relevant agencies to ensure that our presence supports, rather than distracts from, the solemnity of these constitutional proceedings,” he added.
Nartatez said the deployment is supported by continuous intelligence monitoring, regular threat assessments, and close coordination with the Senate and other government agencies.
He said the PNP remains vigilant even as there are no monitored security threats that could affect the proceedings, “At this stage, we have not monitored any credible threats or untoward incidents that would disrupt the impeachment trial.”
“We remain vigilant and are continuously conducting threat assessments. Our intelligence units are operating around the clock to ensure that any potential security gaps are identified and addressed immediately,” Nartatez stressed.
Nartatez also instructed deployed personnel to exercise maximum tolerance and professionalism while respecting the constitutional rights of all individuals who may gather near the Senate.
“We respect the right of every citizen to express their views. We urge the public to remain peaceful and law-abiding. Our officers are deployed to protect the integrity of the institution and the safety of everyone present,” said Nartatez.
“We call on all groups to cooperate with our personnel and ensure that this historic process proceeds without violence or obstruction,” he added.