PNP vows tight security for Sara Duterte impeachment trial

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday it has put in place comprehensive security measures for the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, adding that authorities have not monitored any validated threats that could disrupt the proceedings.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Allen Rae Co said police have completed their security preparations, including the deployment of personnel and coordination with the Senate and other government agencies.

“We have laid down comprehensive security plans for the impeachment trial. Kumpleto po ang ating nailatag na deployment,” Co said.

(We have laid down comprehensive security plans for the impeachment trial. Our deployment plan is complete.)

“We will be deploying an appropriate number of personnel to ensure the peaceful conduct of the impeachment trial,” he added.

Co said the PNP has also been coordinating closely with the Senate and other concerned agencies “to ensure na wala magiging aberya ang magyayaring impeachment trial.” (to ensure there will be no disruption during the impeachment trial.)

He noted that the number of police personnel to be deployed will be disclosed once the preparations are finalized.

At present, Co said the PNP has not monitored any credible security threats related to the proceedings.

“We have not monitored or validated threats or any other plans to disrupt the conduct of the impeachment trial,” Co said, adding that police would verify and act on any information received.

Protest actions

The PNP is also preparing for possible demonstrations that may coincide with the proceedings, although Co said authorities have yet to receive information on any organized protests.

“Wala pa naman po nagsasabi pero part ng preparations we will be monitoring,” he said.

(We have not received any information yet, but monitoring possible protests is part of our preparations.)

Asked whether police are prepared should Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa appear at the impeachment proceedings, Co said authorities would carry out their legal duty if an arrest warrant remains in effect.

“You know the answer to that. We are mandated to effect the arrest of Senator Bato. So if he will be appearing therein ay huhulihin siya ng ating kapulisyan.” (You know the answer to that. We are mandated to effect the arrest of Senator Bato. So if he appears there, our police officers will arrest him.”) — RSJ, GMA News