MANILA — Senators on Thursday pressed for tighter security measures and a comprehensive investigation following the reported gunfire incident at the Senate complex that forced authorities to impose a lockdown Wednesday night.
Senator Robinhood Padilla emphasized the need to upgrade the Senate’s security systems, saying the incident exposed weaknesses in surveillance, perimeter defense, and inter-agency coordination.
He also called for strengthening the Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms to better protect lawmakers, employees, and visitors inside the Senate grounds.
“The Senate is a co-equal constitutional institution, and all operations concerning its premises must respect due process and proper coordination,” Padilla said.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri condemned the incident and urged police authorities to identify the suspects and explain how they managed to escape after the disturbance.
Meanwhile, Senator Erwin Tulfo warned that the incident posed a direct threat to the credibility and dignity of the Senate as one of the country’s democratic institutions.
He said the exchange of gunfire endangered not only lawmakers and Senate personnel but also journalists assigned to cover developments inside the complex.
Tulfo also urged government agencies to enforce the law responsibly while ensuring the protection of civilians.
Based on initial accounts, the incident reportedly began after an attempt was made to access Senate premises through a neighboring building, prompting security forces stationed in the area to respond.
ia/xf
