Acting Senate President Win Gatchalian has directed all Senate Secretariat and Senate Proper offices to adopt a work-from-home arrangement and the implementation of heightened security measures in response to ongoing security concerns affecting the Senate complex.
The work-from-home arrangement will be in effect from June 10 to 11.
The directive was issued with the safety, security, and welfare of Senate personnel as the foremost consideration, following reports of possible threats within and around the Senate premises.
“Hindi tayo pwede maging kampante. Dahil kung may mga ganyang intelligence information, dapat seryosohin. Lahat ng banta ay dapat seryosohin,” Gatchalian said.
He explained that the heightened security posture is a precautionary measure intended to preserve peace and order within the institution amid reports from the National Bureau of Investigation regarding a credible threat to the Senate.
“I have directed the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to immediately enhance security protocols. Given the elevated threat environment surrounding the Senate complex, we have determined that the protection of our employees must take precedence over on-site reporting,” Acting Senate President Gatchalian said.
The enhanced security measures include continuous security sweeps, increased surveillance, stricter screening procedures, and other reinforced protocols to safeguard Senators, Senate officials, employees, and staff.
A temporary no-visitor policy will likewise be enforced to further ensure the safety and security of all personnel within the Senate complex.
Gatchalian also assured Senate employees that the leadership remains committed to protecting their welfare, upholding professional integrity, and ensuring that no personnel acting in good faith will be subjected to intimidation, retaliation, or unwarranted administrative action.
“Ang trabaho ng bansa ay magpapatuloy — ligtas, maayos, at naaayon sa batas,” Acting Senate President Gatchalian said.
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Photo by Mark Cayabyab / OS WIN GATCHALIAN
