Executive Secretary Ralph Recto expressed deep sadness on Tuesday over the recent shooting incident inside the Senate premises, admitting that he never anticipated such violence could occur within the upper chamber.
The May 13 incident involved a tense standoff between the Senate’s Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms and agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The altercation erupted as Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa took “protective custody” inside the Senate building following the unsealing of an arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Speaking with reporters, Recto, a veteran lawmaker who previously served three terms in the upper house from 2001 to 2007 and 2010 to 2022, shared his disbelief over the breach of security and decorum. During his extensive legislative career, Recto held top leadership positions, including Senate President Pro Tempore and Senate Minority Leader.
“Nakakalungkot na nagkaroon ng barilan sa Senado. Not in my wildest dream na maiisip ko na mangyayari yan. Kaya nakakalungkot na nangyari yan sa Senado,” Recto said.