Sherwin Gatchalian: NBI relayed alleged security threats to Senate

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday said he received information of an alleged security threat in the Senate.

According to Gatchalian, it was National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag who shared the information during Monday's Senate Blue Ribbon Committee consultative meeting.

"During the Blue Ribbon consultative meeting yesterday, NBI Director Melvin Matibag informed the sectors present that there is a potential threat to the Senate building and the Senate premises," the senator said in a message to reporters.

Gatchalian also said he is set to meet with the Senate Executive Committee, including the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA), to ensure the necessary security adjustments in the chamber.

"The security and safety of all senators and all Senate employees is paramount. We will make sure that our work environment is safe and secure," he added.

Senator Vicente "Tito" Sotto III said he also received the information.

"Yes, I overheard the report. Security measures are being planned," Sotto said.

Asked if the scheduled legislative inquiry will be suspended, he answered: "Depende. Let's wait for the recommendations of those involved in security."

"The threat is a clear and present danger; therefore, serious considerations must be taken," Sotto said.

Asked how serious the threat is, the senator said it is "very serious according to the intel."

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) spokesperson Police Major Hazel Asilo said, “At this time, we defer to official statements from Senate security and higher headquarters.”

“Rest assured, NCRPO maintains heightened situational awareness and is ready to provide support should it be required,” she said.

Malacañang, for its part, affirmed that the matter has yet to be validated and has been deferred to the proper authorities.

“Sa mga nagtatangka, dahil nga may nauulinigan po na ganitong mga security threats, kayo man ay senador o ordinaryong tao na nagsasagawa nito, hindi po kayo makakaligtas sa kamay ng batas,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press conference.

(To those who are attempting in relation to these rumored security threats, whether you are a senator or an ordinary person, you will not be able to escape the hands of the law.) —AOL/RF, GMA News