Pasay city: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that 6,000 police officers will be deployed to surround the Senate premises in Pasay City to ensure that the impeachment trial for Vice President Sara Z. Duterte proceeds in a peaceful, orderly, and secure environment on July 6.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co revealed during a press briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City that a comprehensive security plan is already in place. Intelligence monitoring is actively ongoing to identify any potential threats. Col. Co mentioned that a final coordinating conference among all units would be conducted for the preparation of the security plan.
Col. Co also stated that the PNP has not received any special requests from the Senate for additional police personnel beyond the assigned Police Security and Protection Group. As of the report, no group has applied for a permit to rally. He mentioned that the PNP remains on heightened alert and will assess by Monday whether to upgrade the alert level.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized the importance of closely monitoring the security situation and conducting regular threat assessments ahead of the trial. He assured that the PNP has protocols in place for securing major government events and is prepared to coordinate with the Senate and other agencies to ensure safe proceedings.
The PNP encouraged the public to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and exercise their rights peacefully. The PNP remains committed to protecting public safety and constitutional freedoms impartially.
The Senate plans to allow at least 150 guests from the public and private sectors each day of the trial on a first-come, first-served basis through the Visitor Management System. Initial trial hearings are scheduled from Monday to Wednesday at 2 p.m. Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, hearings will be held on Tuesdays through Thursdays at the same time.
The Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Duterte include charges of culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption, bribery, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.
