MANILA, Philippines — Police presence outside the Senate premises doubled on Thursday amid the reported serious security threat on the chamber.
The Pasay traffic enforcers also conducted clearing operation as they urged supporters of Vice President Sara Duterte and Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa to dismantle their banners.
The Duterte supporters have camped outside the Senate, specifically on the island along Diokno boulevard.
They brought along orange monoblock chairs and standees for Duterte and Dela Rosa.
Senate officials have emphasized that the enhanced security posture was a precautionary measure and that there were currently no confirmed reports of an active attack, armed confrontation, bombing incident, or other ongoing security emergency within the Senate premises.
In response to the reported threat, Senate authorities implemented a series of security protocols, including intensified screening of personnel, visitors, vehicles, deliveries, and equipment entering the complex. Additional security personnel have reportedly been deployed, while surveillance and perimeter monitoring activities have been strengthened in coordination with law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
To facilitate security assessments and inspections, Senate employees were authorized to work remotely on June 10 and 11. A temporary “No Visitor” policy was also implemented, limiting access to authorized personnel and essential business only.