MANILA — Thousands of police officers will be deployed around the Senate starting next week as authorities strengthen security measures for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Friday that approximately 6,000 personnel will be assigned to secure the Senate complex in Pasay City when the impeachment proceedings formally open on July 6.
PNP spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co said law enforcement agencies have completed an extensive security plan, while intelligence units continue monitoring possible risks that could affect the conduct of the trial.
Police officials also held a final coordination conference on Friday to synchronize operational plans among all participating units.
Co clarified that the Senate has not requested additional security personnel beyond the officers currently assigned through the Police Security and Protection Group.
Authorities likewise confirmed that no permits for protest activities had been filed as of Friday, although the PNP remains on heightened alert and will evaluate whether to raise its alert level once the proceedings begin.
Earlier, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police intelligence and operational units to sustain close surveillance and regular threat assessments to help prevent any disruption during the highly anticipated proceedings.
He assured the public that the PNP will work closely with the Senate and other concerned agencies to preserve peace and order while remaining neutral throughout the impeachment process.
Nartatez also appealed to citizens to respect the law and exercise their constitutional rights peacefully and responsibly.
The Senate expects to accommodate up to 150 visitors daily through its Visitor Management System, with admission granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Trial sessions will initially take place every Monday through Wednesday at 2 p.m. Following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, hearings will be held every Tuesday to Thursday at the same time.
The Articles of Impeachment charge Vice President Duterte with culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.
elamigo/xf
