MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday dismissed reports of alleged security threats surrounding the country’s Independence Day celebrations on June 12, assuring the public that no credible intelligence has been received indicating plans to disrupt nationwide commemorative activities.
The assurance came amid speculation triggered by a closed-door meeting between Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and top police officials, with rumors circulating that authorities were responding to a potential threat, including claims that certain groups were planning to storm Malacañang during the June 12 observance.
However, PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Allen Rae Co said there was no cause for alarm, stressing that the meeting was a routine exercise of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s oversight functions and not a response to any emergency security concern.
“There is nothing unusual or nothing urgent about the meeting and it’s normal and routine exercise of the Secretary’s authority over the PNP to set direction, align priorities as well as ensure all the programs and the operations of the PNP are consistent with the administration’s peace and order agenda,” Co explained.
Co likewise dismissed reports linking the meeting to alleged plans by groups to forcibly enter Malacañang during Independence Day activities.
“We have received no validated intelligence regarding any such threats on Independence Day but we assure the public that the PNP remains ready, vigilant, and fully deployed to ensure the safety and security of all Independence Day celebrations across the country,” he stressed.
The police official said security measures for the June 12 celebrations have long been part of the PNP’s annual operational planning and are not tied to any newly emerging threat.
According to Co, contingency plans have already been prepared and existing security protocols have been strengthened using lessons learned from previous major national events.
The PNP also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could unnecessarily alarm communities and distract authorities from legitimate security concerns.
Independence Day rites and related activities are expected to be held nationwide, with police personnel deployed to secure government-led ceremonies, public gatherings, and other events commemorating the nation’s 128th year of independence./PN
