PNP on alert as Senate may convene as impeachment court vs Sara Duterte

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is on alert as the Senate is expected to convene as an impeachment court against Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. placed Metro Manila and key regional units on alert ahead of possible protest actions and other activities linked to the impeachment proceedings.

“The goal is always to ensure that all activities will start and end peacefully. We expect high emotions from the supporters and this is the part when police presence is needed to maintain peace and order,” Nartatez said in a statement.

Police deployments have been reinforced in strategic locations, including areas surrounding the Senate and other identified convergence points nationwide, the PNP said.

Aside from these, protests are also expected in some parts of Davao City, it added.

The PNP also cited the protest actions organized by supporters of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa recently amid the arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in connection with the Duterte administration’s drug war.

While the Senate building was on lockdown and Dela Rosa was under the protective custody of the upper chamber last Wednesday, gunshots were heard inside the building of the legislative body. Hours later, Dela Rosa left the Senate compound.

“We fully understand the sentiments of everybody on this matter but please don’t treat your PNP as your enemy. Our presence is purely for your safety and security,” Nartatez said.

“I assure our kababayan that the PNP is ready for any eventuality, and we remain focused on exercising our mandate to serve and protect the Filipino people. We appeal to those who are planning to hold rallies to conduct their activities in a peaceful and orderly manner to avoid issues,” he added.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said at least 900 police personnel have been deployed around the Senate, according to a report of GMA News’ Bea Pinlac on Unang Balita.

Barbed wire is still installed at the Senate gates.

Despite the heightened security, the situation at the Senate appears more “business as usual” compared to previous days.

Youth Against Kurakot and other groups are expected to hold protests calling for the immediate removal of Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano from the chamber's highest post.

GMA News sources said there are talks of another possible leadership change in the Senate following tensions and the shooting incident last Wednesday.

As the Senate is also expected to convene later as an impeachment court for Duterte's trial, the 11-member prosecution panel from the House of Representatives is expected to attend, including Representatives Chel Diokno, Leila de Lima, and Gerville Luistro. —AOL, GMA News