Police heightens security around Supreme Court

MANILA, Philippines — Police deployment around the Supreme Court was heightened as early as 5:30 a.m. Friday to ensure the security of the magistrates who will hold a special en banc session to resolve the temporary restraining order (TRO) on the watchlist order on ex-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo.

ManilaPolice District Director Senior Superintendent Alex Gutierrez said police visibility was also increased in anticipation of rallies by groups both sympathetic and opposed to Arroyo.

Gutierrez said they would not allow rallies in front of the high court that would disrupt the session.

He said traffic rerouting may be implemented depending on the situation on the streets around the high tribunal.

The en banc session is scheduled at 11 a.m. Friday, November 18.