SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian has pledged full security and protection for Senator Risa Hontiveros following a wave of threatening online messages directed at the lawmaker.
Gatchalian confirmed that the Senate is already coordinating closely with intelligence agencies to look into the threats and ensure the safety of all members, especially Hontiveros as the latest target of such harassment.
“We are coordinating with intelligence agencies to clarify the facts and, of course, provide security and protection to our senators — especially Senator Risa, since she is the most recent to receive such threats,” Gatchalian stated.
He also reassured the public that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address this coming Monday will proceed safely and in an orderly manner, adding that regular coordination with Senate personnel continues without disruption.
Senator Hontiveros expressed gratitude to Gatchalian for the prompt action. She earlier noted that the surge of hostile remarks and threats online emerged shortly after the fatal shooting of vlogger Alicia “Mima Alicia” Lipata outside her home in Caloocan City on July 17. Authorities remain on alert to prevent any escalation and to hold accountable those responsible for the intimidation.
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