THE Senate leadership has tightened security in and around the perimeter of its office building in Pasay City in the wake of a “bomb threat” posted on its social media account last Tuesday.
Senate President Francis Escudero said the heightened security was part of safety measures to ensure the safety of employees and people visiting the upper chamber.
“Yes…through the Senate’s social media account… While it was not considered as a credible and serious threat, the OSAA (Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms) is nevertheless taking the necessary precautions,” Escudero said.
Senate spokesperson Arnel Jose Banas said the OSAA has implemented additional security measures “as a safeguard” to ensure the safety of senators, employees, and visitors.
“We had also instructed our OSAA to work closely with concerned government agencies regarding the matter. The safety and security of everyone in the Senate is our utmost priority,” Banas said.
Security guards are seen inspecting the bottom portion of vehicles entering the Senate compound using “inspection mirrors” but were not instructing the drivers to open the vehicle’s trunk as of early Wednesday.
The security threat happened with Congress set to take a long holiday break starting December 21. Sessions resume January 13 next year.
