Senate tightens security amid 'threat' made thru Facebook

The Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) is implementing stricter security protocols in the Senate amid a "threat" made through Facebook, according to Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. Wednesday.

"May nagpost ng threat sa Senate Facebook page yesterday morning. Most likely by a prankster since nagpost din kung saan saan 'yung 'account.' But OSAA implemented security protocols per SOP (standard operating procedure) starting yesterday just to be sure," Bantug said in a text message.

This was confirmed by Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero when asked about the said "threat."

"Yes, through the Senate’s social media account. While it was not considered as a credible and serious threat, the OSAA is nevertheless taking the necessary precautions," Escudero said.

The Senate officials did not mention the details of the said threat posted via its Facebook page.

A quick scan of the Senate's official Facebook page would show a social media user's comment which read as "MAYROONG BOMBA JAN ANUMAN ARAW O ORAS MAAARING SUMABOG JAN SA PWESTO NYO ACTIONAN N'YO ITONG SINASABI KO KAUAPIN NINYO AKO NG PERSONAL NG MALAMAN NINYO KUNG BAKIT."

Unlike in normal days in the Senate, there are personnel from Pasay City police outside the premises and there are long queues for inspection before entering the building.

In a separate statement, Senate spokesperson Arnel Jose Bañas said the OSAA has been instructed to work closely with concerned agencies regarding the matter.

He added that the Senate premises had been thoroughly inspected by security and police personnel.

"The safety and security of everyone in the Senate is our utmost priority. Please bear with us while we enforce safeguard measures," he further said.—AOL, GMA Integrated News