Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro has called on law enforcement authorities to tighten security at the Senate ahead of the June 18 pre-trial conference for the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking during a press briefing at the House of Representatives, Luistro—who chairs the House prosecution panel—stressed the urgent need to prioritize the safety of everyone participating in the high-profile trial.
While she noted that there is no confirmed link between recent security breaches, such as the cyberattack on the Senate website, and the upcoming trial, Luistro asserted that proactive measures are necessary to manage potential threats.
“You know, it’s hard to speculate if this is connected to the impeachment trial,” Luistro said. “What is clear, we have a schedule already for our first pre-trial conference on June 18, and that will be this coming Thursday.”
The lawmaker clarified that the demand for heightened security covers all individuals involved, including the prosecution and defense panels, lawmakers, and Senate employees.
“So, I wish to express my concern about the security and safety of those who will be joining the filing of pre-trial brief on Monday, and those who will be joining the conduct of the pre-trial conference on Thursday, as well as all the senators, even the defense team, and the officials and employees of the Senate, who are staying in the premises,” she said.
Luistro has formally requested the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a comprehensive security evaluation of the Senate premises.
4She emphasized that the impeachment process holds immense constitutional weight and affects the entire nation.
“If this is connected to the impeachment trial, then we have more reason to make sure that this will be addressed, because this is a very significant process,” she added.
In addition to securing the physical venue, Luistro revealed that House leaders are currently coordinating efforts to safeguard critical elements of the prosecution’s case.
“And, of course, apart from this, we express likewise our concern in securing as well our witnesses and the evidence to be presented. There are ongoing communications already in order to address that,” she said.