The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up security monitoring and intelligence operations ahead of the Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, which is set to begin on July 6.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said intelligence and operational units have been directed to conduct regular threat assessments to help ensure the proceedings will be peaceful, orderly, and secure.
“At this time, the PNP has not monitored any specific or credible threat directly related to the impeachment proceedings. Nevertheless, we are maintaining heightened monitoring and close coordination with our intelligence and operational units to promptly address any emerging concern,” Nartatez said.
The security preparations are in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to uphold public safety and ensure that lawful government processes proceed without disruption.
The Senate earlier said the impeachment trial would be open to the public and aired live, prompting authorities to review security measures and contingency plans for the proceedings.
Nartatez said the PNP is prepared to provide security assistance once formally requested by the Senate.
“We have existing protocols for securing major government events and are prepared to coordinate closely with the Senate and other concerned agencies to ensure that the proceedings are conducted safely, peacefully, and without disruption,” he said.
As part of its preparations, the PNP has placed intelligence units on heightened alert for possible security concerns, including extremist activity, public disturbances, and misinformation campaigns that could incite violence.
Police commanders were also instructed to conduct regular security assessments before major hearings so deployments can be adjusted based on the prevailing threat environment.
Nartatez urged the public to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and exercise their rights responsibly.
“The PNP will remain impartial and committed to protecting both public safety and constitutional freedoms,” he said.