The Philippine National Police (PNP) clarified that its beefed-up security deployment is strictly confined to the outer perimeter of the Senate complex to maintain public order amid calls for a vigil following renewed tensions.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the measure is purely preventive and aimed at managing public assembly outside the Senate grounds in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. and DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla to maintain peace and order.
“Our deployment is strictly a proactive, external security measure meant to manage public assembly and ensure the safety of everyone,” he said.
“The Philippine National Police will remain outside the complex to monitor protesters and maintain public order, as we fully respect the administrative autonomy and internal protocols of the Senate’s own security force,” he added.
Earlier, PGEN Nartatez ordered the deployment of additional police forces to the Senate complex as more people trooped to the area to hold protest actions.
Following the recent development at the Senate on Wednesday, the PNP is expecting more protesters to go to the Senate, especially that there was a call to hold a vigil in the area.
Meanwhile, PGEN Nartatez urged restraint from all sides as authorities prepare for the event.
To ensure operational readiness, he directed local and concerned police units to exercise maximum tolerance when dealing with those who will attend the vigil.
The top cop also ordered commanders to strictly observe established protocols on peaceful assemblies. Under these directives, ground units are currently establishing designated areas for protesters and vigil participants to ensure orderly movement and prevent any traffic or security disruptions.
“While we acknowledge certain calls for a peaceful vigil, we strongly urge all groups—whether supporters or critics—to maintain sobriety, to exercise maximum restraint, and to respect our laws,” PGEN Nartatez said.
“We appeal to the public not to let simmering political tensions escalate into civil disorder. Our police forces are on the ground not to suppress your voices but to guarantee that peace and public safety prevail for the duration of these assemblies,” he concluded.