Senator Imee Marcos is calling for the temporary relief of top National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) officials following an alleged unauthorized raid conducted by agency operatives at the Senate premises on May 11 and 13.
Marcos targeted NBI Director Melvin Matibag, NBI-National Capital Region Chief Emeterio Dongallo Jr., and NBI-Organized and Transnational Crime Division Chief Jerome Bomediano, insisting they be removed from their posts while a full investigation is underway.
The controversy peaked on Monday, May 13, when NBI operatives allegedly entered the Senate grounds in an attempt to arrest Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. Marcos criticized the bureau for what she described as blatant deception and contradictory explanations regarding the incidents.
“Malinaw na pambabastos sa institusyon ng Senado ang nangyari, kawalan ng galang sa mga senador, at tahasang pang-aabuso sa kapangyarihan ng mga halang ang sikmura,” Marcos stressed.
Call for Accountability
In response to the tension, Marcos formally filed Senate Resolution No. 396 to launch a legislative inquiry into the alleged incursions by NBI personnel, other law enforcement units, and involved private individuals.
The lawmaker questioned the motives behind the security breach, demanding transparency from the agency’s leadership.
“Kung totoong walang itinatago, bakit kailangan nilang lusubin ang Senado? Sino ang nagbigay ng utos at sino ang nakinabang sa kaguluhang ito?” she asked.
Marcos warned that failing to address the breach sets a dangerous precedent for government institutions.
“Kapag hinayaan lang natin ito, bukas makalawa kahit anong institusyon puwede nang sindakin at pasukin. Hindi kami mananahimik habang unti-unting niyuyurakan ang kalayaan at dignidad ng Senado, panagutin ang mga dapat managot,” she added.