Authorities are now considering the possible connection between an alleged threat to the Senate and 18 individuals who claimed to be former bodyguards of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co. The latter has previously been linked to allegations of kickbacks in anomalous flood control projects.
Senate Takes Threat Seriously
According to Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian, the Senate takes any security threat seriously. He immediately instructed the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to coordinate with various intelligence agencies to verify the information.
“We take all threats seriously… our priority is the safety of employees, media, Senate members, and senators,” Gatchalian said.
Heightened Security Measures
As a result, the Senate was placed on heightened security status starting June 9. A two-day remote work setup was also implemented as a precautionary measure.
It was learned that the information came from the National Bureau of Investigation, which raised the possibility that an armed group could cause trouble at the Senate.
Cayetano Questions Timing
However, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano questioned the threat and its timing, especially with an upcoming hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee led by Cayetano's faction.
Acting Senate President Gatchalian clarified that the Senate is not on lockdown, but security remains tight while verification is ongoing.
Coordination with Law Enforcement
Meanwhile, the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms assured that they are coordinating with law enforcement agencies to confirm the alleged threat and maintain safety within the Senate.
