PNP launches full investigation into gunshots heard inside Senate
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) pledged to conduct a comprehensive and exhaustive investigation into the gunshots heard inside the Senate Building in Pasay City on Wednesday night.
In a statement on Thursday, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said investigators from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) had already been mobilized to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident inside the Senate.
READ: Marcos: ‘We’ll get to the bottom of this; it was not government-led’
The directive came amid reports of an alleged attempt to arrest Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa inside the Senate premises following a warrant reportedly issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over the previous administration’s anti-drug campaign.
“We assure all our kababayan of a thorough, objective, and exhaustive investigation of this incident. Our goal is clear: follow the evidence wherever it leads,” said Nartatez.
“We are working closely with the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to ensure that no stone is left unturned. This is a matter of national security and public trust,” Nartatez added.
Nartatez, along with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, personally visited the Senate to assess the situation and coordinate with Senate officials in compliance with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure everyone’s safety and uncover the truth behind the incident.
Earlier, President Marcos clarified that the incident was not initiated by the government.
Nartatez also instructed concerned PNP units to closely coordinate with Senate leadership and the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to secure all possible evidence related to the incident.
The PNP has since raised its security posture to the highest alert level following reports of gunfire within the Senate complex.
According to Nartatez, police personnel deployed in the area were tasked only to assist in security operations while authorities carry out the investigation.
He emphasized that no police officer discharged a firearm during the incident.
“Our personnel are there in a purely supportive and protective capacity, coordinated strictly with the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms,” said Nartatez
“Their presence is intended to maintain order, secure the perimeter, and ensure the safety of the Senators and the staff while the investigation is active. They are not there to interfere with legislative proceedings,” he said.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and CIDG were likewise ordered to preserve all available CCTV footage, radio communications, and entry logs that could help establish what transpired during the incident.
Police investigators are expected to submit an initial report once evidence gathering has been completed. /jpv
