Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, sinabing “attack on Senate” ang putukang nangyari sa loob ng senado

• Reports of gunfire within the Senate complex caused widespread panic, forcing senators and staff to switch off lights and seek cover
• Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano and other lawmakers stood their ground, refusing to leave Sen. Bato Dela Rosa despite threats of an imminent arrest by authorities
• Tensions escalated as protesters reportedly attacked vehicles, including that of Sen. Tito Sotto, while law enforcement struggled to maintain order
• The standoff remains fluid as senators claim the Senate is "under attack" while seeking legal remedies to prevent a forced entry

The Philippine Senate was plunged into a state of high-alert and confusion on Wednesday night, May 13, following reports of gunfire and a heavy law enforcement presence.

The building, usually a hall of deliberation, became a fortress of fear as senators, staff, and media personnel were trapped inside amidst a tense standoff regarding the potential arrest of Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa.

The atmosphere shifted dramatically when several lawmakers claimed that armed tensions had erupted within the premises.

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This occurred as agents allegedly prepared to serve a warrant in connection with international investigations.

According to a report by Cebu Daily News, the Sergeant-at-Arms confirmed that shots were fired, prompting a total lockdown of the complex.

In a frantic Facebook Live broadcast, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano described the scene as an assault on the democratic institution.

"This is the Senate of the Philippines. We are under attack," he said. He instructed everyone inside to remain low and stay away from windows. "We have to turn off the lights dahil may putukan na nangyayari. So, the rest, mga nasa Senate, turn off the lights, stay low. Kung may active shooters, follow the protocols."

The tension was palpable as Sen. Pia Cayetano confronted officials from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

"Pinuputukan kami dito!" she exclaimed during the height of the commotion. When told to lower her voice, she retorted, "Sumisigaw ako dahil mataas ang emotions, dahil pinuputukan kami! Well then do your job! Make us safe!"

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Outside the barricaded entrances, the situation was equally volatile. Former Senate President Tito Sotto condemned the security failure after his vehicle was swarmed by unruly protesters.

"I am furious and disappointed with the PNP. The barbaric protesters banged my vehicle repeatedly, threw bottles, and cursed foul remarks," he stated.

Despite the chaos, the Senate leadership remained firm in their protection of Sen. Bato. Sen. Alan Peter emphasized that they would not abandon their colleague, citing that legal remedies are still being exhausted.

Sen. Bato, who had earlier called for a "prayer vigil" through a video message, remained within the chamber's protective custody.

He was heard saying: "Sana po ay samahan ninyo ako sa panalangin... Hindi po tayo lalaban ng dahas, pero hindi rin tayo basta-basta susuko dahil may proseso ang batas na dapat sundin. Dito lang ako sa loob ng Senado dahil ito ang safe haven natin sa ngayon."

As of late Wednesday evening, Sen. Imee Marcos and Sen. Bong Go also issued appeals for peace and sobriety.

"Bakit nagkakaputukan dito sa Senado? Hindi na ito normal," Sen. Imee posted on social media.

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Meanwhile, Sen. Bong Go urged the public to pray for their safety as they waited for the situation to stabilize.

The lights remain dimmed in several offices as the nation watches the standoff unfold.

A couple of hours ago, a short video message was broadcast by Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, urging his followers to organize a non-violent prayer gathering outside the legislative building. The lawmaker revealed he had received intelligence that law enforcement teams were headed to his location to serve a warrant following the day's proceedings. He emphasized that the assembly should remain spiritual in nature, seeking moral support while he stays within the protection of the chamber. This development arrives on the heels of intense political friction sparked by an international court order and a sudden change in the institution's top leadership.

In a related article, Sen. Robin Padilla voiced his frustration during a live hearing, taking offense at the allegedly aggressive tone and volume used by Sen. Kiko Pangilinan during their debate. The legislative session was momentarily put on hold by Loren to diffuse the rising animosity between the two officials. A formal inquiry was raised by the actor-turned-senator regarding the decorum and rules governing how members should verbally interact with one another. The misunderstanding was resolved after Kiko offered a public apology, explaining that his raised voice was a result of passion rather than hostility.

Source: KAMI.com.gh