Manila: Senator Raffy Tulfo is advocating for a more structured security framework for the Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) following a recent incident within the Senate premises.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo has introduced Senate Resolution No. 402, which calls for comprehensive capacity-building initiatives for OSAA personnel. The resolution also emphasizes the need for a formal operations manual to ensure effective, rights-based security operations. This move comes in response to a standoff between Senate security and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) members, which highlighted deficiencies in internal protocols and coordination with external law enforcement.

Reports of confusion during the incident, including warning shots, lockdown procedures, and inconsistent accounts from involved parties, point to the necessity for clearer operational standards and updated coordination mechanisms. Tulfo stressed that the event underscored the need for an independent operational manual tailored to the Senate's security needs.

Previously, suspended Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca mentioned that a warning shot was fired to prevent escalation. In contrast, former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III noted that the OSAA is not governed by the PNP's Revised Operational Procedures due to its independent oversight.

Tulfo's resolution aims to address the 'operational and regulatory gap' by institutionalizing a professional framework for the OSAA. This includes defining protocols, command responsibility, communication systems, use-of-force guidelines, and coordination mechanisms with law enforcement agencies.

The proposed training programs for OSAA personnel would encompass crisis and crowd management, emergency response, de-escalation techniques, and other relevant security operations. Additionally, Tulfo suggests collaboration with government agencies, law enforcement, and security experts to update the OSAA manual, aligning it with constitutional rights and public safety principles.

The senator believes that these measures will enhance the OSAA's capability, professionalism, and credibility, ensuring that future security incidents are managed with clear and accountable procedures.