The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced it will maintain a heightened alert status around the Senate premises due to persisting security issues and recent public demonstrations.
In a radio interview, NCRPO Director Major General Anthony Aberin explained that the increased security presence will persist as long as public sentiment regarding the Senate remains volatile.
He emphasized that the primary responsibility of the police is to protect the public and uphold peace.
While the demonstrators lack official rally permits, authorities have permitted them to gather and air their grievances outside the Senate complex on the condition that the protests remain peaceful and orderly.
The NCRPO regularly stations more than 300 personnel at the site, with provisions to increase the deployment if larger crowds gather.
Inside the complex, strict security measures are being enforced as legislative sessions resume. Security teams inspect all incoming vehicles using under-vehicle mirrors, and visitors must present valid identification alongside a legitimate purpose for entry.
According to the NCRPO, no explicit security threats have been validated so far, but intelligence units continue to monitor the situation and review incoming advisories.
These protective measures coincide with growing concerns over the institution’s stability. The Senate’s EDP-MIS Bureau recently reported that its official website fell victim to a cyber incident involving website defacement.
Additionally, Senate President Pro Tempore Win Gatchalian stated that the chamber is monitoring potential risks based on intelligence shared by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The NBI is actively investigating these leads, which officials suggest could be connected to wider efforts to destabilize the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.