It is a matter that they view as a “credible threat” to the institution.
On Tuesday, June 9, Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian revealed that he received an information from National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag.
According to him, through a message to reporters, “During the Blue Ribbon consultative meeting yesterday (June 8), NBI Director Melvin Matibag informed the sectors present that there is a potential threat to the Senate building and the Senate premises.”
He was pertaining to the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee consultative meeting on the flood control scandal, which was led by Senator Erwin Tulfo on Monday morning.
After getting that info, Gatchalian said: “The security and safety of all senators and all Senate employees is paramount. We will make sure that our work environment is safe and secure,” and told he woulf meet with Senate security officers.
Meanwhile, in a public statement on his Facebook page, the current Senate President Pro Tempore told that, “The safety, security, and welfare of Senate personnel remain our top priority, following reports of possible threats within and around the Senate premises.“
As such, all Senate Secretariat and Senate Proper offices were directed adopt a work-from-home arrangement and implement heightened security measures in response to ongoing security concerns, which he said is affecting the Senate complex from June 10 to 11.
“Hindi tayo puwedeng maging kampante. Kung may intelligence information tungkol sa banta, dapat itong seryosohin. Lahat ng banta ay seseryosohin natin,” he added.
Gatchalian also told that these measures are “precautionary” and are only “intended to preserve peace and order amid reports from the National Bureau of Investigation regarding a credible threat to the Senate.”
He has also since ordered the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to immediately enhance security protocols, including continuous security sweeps, increased surveillance, stricter screening procedures, and other measures to safeguard Senators, Senate officials, and staff.
“A temporary no-visitor policy will likewise be enforced to ensure the safety of all personnel within the Senate complex,” furthered the leader of the chamber.
“We remain committed to protecting our employees’ welfare, upholding professional integrity, and ensuring that no personnel acting in good faith will be subjected to intimidation, retaliation, or unwarranted administrative action.”
To end, the lawmaker said that the work continues for the Senate in a manner that is safe, orderly, and in accordance with the law.