Manila: House Committee on Justice Chairperson and lead prosecutor Gerville 'Jinky Bitrics' Luistro of Batangas has called on law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of the Senate premises, prosecutors, witnesses, personnel, and evidence ahead of the June 18 pre-trial conference in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

According to Philippines News Agency, Luistro addressed the media at the House of Representatives, indicating that while the connection between the reported security threat and website defacement involving the Senate and the impeachment proceedings remains unclear, authorities must act swiftly to mitigate any potential risks. The pre-trial conference is scheduled for next week, making the need for security paramount.

Luistro emphasized the importance of securing the Senate premises, especially for those involved in the pre-trial brief filing on Monday and the pre-trial conference on June 18, stressing the safety of senators, the defense team, and all Senate officials and employees. She urged the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other relevant agencies to ensure safety and security at the Senate.

She highlighted the constitutional significance of the impeachment process, which impacts all Filipinos globally, and noted that House leadership has already initiated communications on security measures for prosecutors following reports from the NBI and the hacking of the Senate website.

Luistro also expressed concern for the security of witnesses and evidence, stating that ongoing communications are in place to address these issues.