The Philippine National Police (PNP) has dismissed online rumors alleging a government destabilization plot and a planned attack on Malacañang during the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, stating that no verified intelligence supports the claims.
During a press briefing on Friday, acting PNP spokesperson Police Col. Allen Rae Co reassured citizens that security forces have not detected any legitimate threats concerning the June 12 festivities.
“We have received no validated intelligence regarding any such threats on Independence Day,” Co said.
The spokesperson emphasized that law enforcement units remain fully prepared and strategically deployed to secure all national holiday events.
“But we reassure the public that the PNP remains ready and vigilant and fully deployed to ensure the safety and security of … Independence Day celebrations across the country,” he added.
The PNP issued the clarification following a social media post by veteran broadcaster Mon Tulfo, who alleged that a confidential command conference was held at Camp Crame in Quezon City.
Tulfo claimed an anonymous source informed him that regional police chiefs and unit commanders met with Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to counter an alleged June 12 assault on Malacañang, supposedly orchestrated by certain groups and a religious sector allied with Vice President Sara Duterte.
While Co confirmed that general holiday security preparations were on the agenda, he clarified that the high-level meeting actually centered on other key national security initiatives.
“The topics discussed were actually security for the upcoming SONA (State of the Nation Address), security on the Senate, as well as the safer cities initiative of the Secretary,” Co explained.
When questioned about whether the police would track down the source behind the alleged information leak mentioned by Tulfo, Co stated that authorities must validate the rumors first.
“Again, we will verify that information and we will act accordingly,” the acting PNP spokesman said.
He concluded by reminding citizens to be responsible social media users and to refrain from spreading unconfirmed reports.
“Let us not be a party to sowing disinformation if ever this is disinformation,” he added.