PNP urges calm as Congress holds special session; over 300 cops deployed

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday urged political supporters to remain calm and respect the rule of law as authorities brace for possible protest actions during the special session of Congress.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police force has long prepared calibrated response measures for any eventuality, particularly around the Senate, while emphasizing that there is no need for actions that go beyond the right to peaceful assembly.

“We fully respect everyone’s freedom to express opinion and participate in a political activity, but we believe this can be done without resorting to any move that could compromise the safety of anybody,” Nartatez said in a statement.

The appeal came as Congress convened in a special session called by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. through Proclamation No. 1318 to tackle priority measures that have reached advanced stages in the legislative process.

Despite the legislative agenda, police are anticipating protest actions amid the current political climate.

According to the PNP, more than 300 personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) have been deployed around the Senate, with additional forces on standby should crowd sizes increase.

Authorities have also implemented heightened security measures, including vehicle inspections and strict identification checks at entry points.

Nartatez said the PNP has strengthened coordination with both the Senate and the House of Representatives and remains focused on maintaining peace and order.

“While we remain apolitical and non-partisan, our focus remains on maintaining peace and order in society amid these political tensions,” he added. —KG, GMA News