Security bars some workers from entering Senate

MANILA, Philippines — Some employees were barred from entering the Senate premises on Wednesday as the chamber enforces heightened security measures  amid alleged possible threats against it.

Among those stopped by the  Senate security outside the gate were staff members of Sens. Loren Legarda and Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.  

According to one of the security personnel, they have been advised that Legarda would come to the Senate.

Meanwhile, a visitor, who claimed to be seeking financial  assistance from the office of Sen. Robin Padilla, also failed to get to the Senate. 

A “temporary no-visitor policy” was clearly stated in a memorandum issued on Tuesday by Gatchalian.

READ: Senate under heightened security amid possible threat

Despite the enhanced security measures, a member of the Senate’s Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms  clarified that the chamber was not under lockdown, noting that some employees were allowed inside the chamber. 

Outside the gate, security personnel could be seen checking a list before they allow entry.

Gatchalian, in a separate advisory also on Tuesday, authorized employees to work remotely this  Wednesday and Thursday, citing  the security threat  relayed to them by  the National Bureau of Investigation. /das