Authorities have arrested one of the armed individuals allegedly involved in the shooting incident inside the Senate complex on Wednesday night, as investigators continue to piece together what triggered the tense confrontation.
Philippine National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño identified the suspect as 44-year-old Mel Oragon, who was apprehended by personnel of the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) shortly after the incident.
Oragon was later turned over to the Pasay City Police for investigation and filing of charges.
According to Tuaño, police are preparing at least five criminal complaints against the suspect, including illegal possession of ammunition, alarms and scandal, grave threats, direct assault, and violation of Senate security regulations.
Authorities also recovered ammunition and magazines from Oragon during his arrest.
“He was apprehended on the second floor, in the area where the incident occurred,” Tuaño said.
Police said initial investigation showed that at least 10 armed individuals were allegedly involved in the breach of Senate premises.
“Reportedly, they saw no less than 10 individuals,” Tuaño said, referring to the account of Senate security personnel.
Investigators are still determining whether Oragon actually fired a weapon during the incident.
“We’re still determining if he was among those who opened fire,” Tuaño added.
The suspect was subjected to a paraffin test by the police Scene of the Crime Operatives to determine whether he recently discharged a firearm. Authorities said the results may be released within the day.
Tuaño also confirmed that police are verifying reports linking Oragon to the National Bureau of Investigation, where he was allegedly employed as a driver.
“We will later issue a statement regarding his employment status,” he said.
The PNP likewise said investigators are not ruling out any angle, including claims circulating online that the incident may have been staged.
“We heard that theory, but there was an arrest made and this person will be facing charges,” Tuaño said.
He added, however, that the “staged” angle remains part of the ongoing investigation.
The shooting incident triggered heightened security inside the Senate complex and intensified political tensions surrounding Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, who had been staying inside the Senate under protective custody amid reports of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant.