Malacañang assured the public on Sunday that security preparations around the Palace are sufficient amid the ongoing 3-day rally organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), as authorities implemented temporary gate closures and tightened perimeter controls.
In an interview with DZBB, PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro said security units have taken “enough” precautionary steps, including selective gate closures and increased police deployment, to prevent disturbances.
“I think the preparations they’re making are enough. Whatever gate they open, I think that’s enough to provide protection to prevent trouble,” Castro said.
She noted that the measures aim to protect not only Malacañang but also nearby residents, workers, and businesses.
“It’s not only Malacañang that’s being protected here. There are many people who could be dragged in… In the past, other people and establishments were dragged in,” she said.
Castro added that law enforcement agencies are prepared should tensions arise.
“I think our police are ready for that kind of activity,” she said.
PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the rally while remaining inside Malacañang.
The Presidential Security Command (PSC) earlier announced temporary closures of several access points to the Palace complex. The Arlegui and Solano Gates will be closed to vehicles starting Nov. 15, with pedestrian access allowed.
From Nov. 16 to 18, both gates will be fully closed to all traffic. The JP Laurel Gate will keep one lane open from Nov. 15 to 18.
The PSC urged motorists and commuters to adjust travel plans during the security adjustments. Newly installed barricades were also placed around the Palace perimeter.
Authorities reiterated that the right to peaceful assembly will be upheld, but security protocols will remain in place to maintain order.
Meanwhile, Malacañang on Sunday accused former lawmaker Zaldy Co of being “used” by groups allegedly attempting to oust the President.
In the DZBB interview, Castro said Co’s accusations were false and timed to benefit those who want to “bring down the President.”
“I think Zaldy Co has used and exploited me, in my view. This was done because those who want to topple the President want the President to be removed,” she said.
She suggested Co may have been offered protection by groups seeking a change in leadership.
“Maybe… he was convinced that if we are in power, the President would be replaced, you wouldn’t be pursued, you wouldn’t be charged, or that would go away,” she said.
Castro said Co’s photos of suitcases do not prove his allegation that President Marcos Jr. ordered him to insert P100 billion worth of projects in the 2025 national budget.
Co, who has been abroad since the flood control issue made headlines, earlier accused Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez of allocating the funds and receiving kickbacks from infrastructure projects.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Palace: Security measures enough amid ongoing INC rally”
