Senator Robin Padilla has come to the defense of Senate Acting Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca in connection with the shooting incident that occurred at the Senate on May 13, 2026. In a Facebook post, Padilla stated that Aplasca was instrumental in preventing a more serious incident and potential loss of life both inside and outside the Senate. 'This man saved the lives of those inside and outside the Senate,' Padilla said.
Warning Shots Key to De-escalation
According to the senator, the warning shots fired by Aplasca and agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) were crucial in calming the situation and demonstrating that both sides were not adversaries. 'His warning shot and the NBI's warning shot calmed the situation and proved that both were friendly forces, lacking proper coordination and communication from their leaders,' Padilla explained.
Peaceful Resolution Despite Tensions
He added that intense emotions or 'combat high' did not prevail on either side, allowing the disturbance to end peacefully. The senator also expressed gratitude that no one was injured in the incident. 'Alhamdulillah, no life was sacrificed in this confusion,' he added.
Ombudsman Suspension
Meanwhile, the Office of the Ombudsman imposed a six-month preventive suspension without pay on Aplasca in relation to the Senate incident, which is reportedly linked to the attempted arrest of Senator Ronald dela Rosa due to an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.
