Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday dismissed social media claims of a possible mob attack on Malaca±ang during the country's Independence Day celebrations on June 12, saying no validated intelligence supports such reports.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co at a press briefing in Camp Crame stated, "We have received no validated intelligence regarding any such threats on Independence Day, but we reassure the public that the PNP remains ready and vigilant and fully deployed to ensure the safety and security of all Independence Day celebrations across the country."
Co confirmed that Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla met with the PNP's top leadership, regional directors, and directorial staff earlier in the day, but quickly added that it was "part of his oversight functions and mandate over the PNP." He emphasized that such meetings are normal and routine exercises of the Secretary's authority over the PNP to set direction, align priorities, and ensure all programs and operations are consistent with the administration's peace and order agenda.
Discussions during the meeting focused on security preparations for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), Senate security, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government's (DILG) "Safer Cities" initiative. Co added that the PNP's intelligence and counterterrorism units continuously monitor and assess potential threats before, during, and after major national events, including Independence Day celebrations.
Co assured that contingency measures and deployment plans are already in place for key installations, including Malaca±ang. He urged the public to verify information before sharing it online and warned against the spread of unverified reports that could cause unnecessary alarm. Asked whether the PNP would raise its alert status for Independence Day, Co said heightened readiness is standard procedure during major national events.
Meanwhile, in an advisory, the DILG warned the public against letters and electronic messages allegedly using the department's logo and that of the National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO), as well as a purportedly fake email account. DILG Undersecretary for Local Government Marlo Iringan said several local government offices had received communications bearing the DILG and NBOO logos, while some emails originated from unofficial accounts.
The advisory reminded that unauthorized use, misrepresentation, or fraudulent activities involving the department or the NBOO may result in administrative, civil, and criminal charges under existing laws. The agency also urged local officials and the public to immediately report similar incidents for proper documentation and appropriate action.
