The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy 6,000 police officers to secure the Senate during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, according to a police official on Tuesday.
Security Plan for the Impeachment Trial
PNP Director for Operations, Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III, said the security plan involves personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and other units. The deployment aims to ensure peace and order around the Senate building in Pasay City and nearby areas.
“We will have 6,000 police personnel deployed to secure the Senate and its vicinity during the trial,” Torre said in a press briefing. He added that the security measures include checkpoints, roving patrols, and rapid response teams.
Scope of Security Operations
The police will also secure the routes leading to the Senate, as well as the residences of senators and key government officials. Torre emphasized that the deployment is standard procedure for high-profile events and not indicative of any specific threat.
“We always prepare for worst-case scenarios, but we hope for the best. The public should not be alarmed,” he said.
Impeachment Trial Background
The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is set to begin on March 11, 2025, after the House of Representatives transmitted the articles of impeachment to the Senate in February. Duterte faces charges of betrayal of public trust, corruption, and violation of the Constitution, among others.
The Senate will act as the impeachment court, with senators serving as jurors. Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo will preside over the trial.
Public Safety Measures
Torre urged the public to cooperate with security personnel and avoid bringing prohibited items to the Senate area. He also advised motorists to take alternate routes as some roads may be closed or restricted during the trial.
“We ask for understanding and cooperation from everyone as we implement these measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly proceeding,” Torre said.
