Senate of the Philippines. Photo courtesy of PNA.
More than 6,000 police officers will secure the Senate complex and nearby areas as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte opens on Monday.
The National Capital Region Police Office said 3,250 police personnel would be initially deployed around the Senate, while 2,900 others would be placed on standby.
NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo said authorities were preparing for the possible arrival of both protesters and supporters outside the Senate when proceedings begin.
Asilo said police were instructed to observe maximum tolerance, respect the right to peaceful expression, and enforce operational procedures around the Senate.
She said the NCRPO recognizes the public’s right to peaceful assembly, but stressed that it must be exercised within the bounds of law, security rules and police regulations.
Asilo said public cooperation would be crucial in keeping order, adding that violations would be addressed immediately to prevent tension and protect public safety.
She said authorities wanted to prevent a repeat of an earlier incident in which a senator’s vehicle was hit with objects during a previous gathering outside the Senate.
Kilusang Bayan Kontra Kurakot is expected to hold a Bantay Impeachment protest on Monday, while faith-based group Kingdom Keepers earlier held a Jericho Walk at the Senate compound to pray for truth, justice and guidance in the impeachment proceedings.