MANILA, Philippines — Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Friday that Malacañang could not confirm reports of an alleged plan to attack the Palace on June 12, while law enforcement agencies continued monitoring potential security threats ahead of Independence Day celebrations.
Castro issued the statement after veteran journalist and columnist Ramon Tulfo posted on social media that the Philippine National Police (PNP) had allegedly received intelligence reports about a planned attack on Malacañang that would be led by a religious group.
“As of now, we cannot confirm the alleged plan of destabilizers on June 12,” Castro said in a Viber message.
She said law enforcement and investigative agencies have the mandate to address any illegal activities and urged the public to remain vigilant.
“It is within the mandate of law enforcement agencies and investigative bodies to act on these kinds of illegal activities. Let us all be careful of the forces of darkness,” Castro said.
Castro also said that supporters of a political figure had allegedly sought to install their preferred leader before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term in 2028. She did not identify the individual.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to lead the country’s Independence Day celebrations on June 12, although the government has not yet released details of the event.
Meanwhile, PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Allen Rae Co said the police organization had not received any validated intelligence indicating a threat to this year’s Independence Day activities.
“But we reassure the public that the PNP remains ready and vigilant and fully deployed to ensure the safety and security of all Independence Day celebrations across the country,” Co said.
