Gunshots were heard at the Philippine Senate on the 13th. On the 14th, the Presidential Palace held a press conference to clarify that the gunfire came from Senate security and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) personnel exchanging warning shots, with no injuries reported.
Presidential spokesperson Castro stated that next to the Senate building is the Public Security building, with a skybridge connecting the two structures. Because demonstrators had gathered outside the Senate, the security company requested the NBI to send personnel to help maintain building security.
He pointed out that while NBI personnel were on alert near the skybridge, they were questioned by Senate security staff. Shortly after, the Senate security put on bulletproof vests and fired warning shots, followed by the NBI personnel also firing warning shots.
He clarified that the NBI and police had no intention of carrying out an arrest of Senator Dela Rosa.
Observers believe that whether Dela Rosa is arrested could further influence some senators’ voting tendencies in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara.
Dela Rosa was the Chief of the National Police during former President Duterte’s administration. Sara is Duterte’s daughter.