At least 12 gunshots were reportedly heard inside the Philippine Senate building in Pasay City today, triggering a lockdown and orders for occupants to evacuate to secure areas.
Eyewitness accounts and social media posts describe panic as staff and officials were instructed to seek shelter in protected zones. Media personnel were reportedly being evacuated from the complex amid the chaos.
The incident occurs amid an ongoing standoff involving Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, a key ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Dela Rosa remains under Senate protective custody after fleeing National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents earlier this week when they attempted to serve an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant on him for alleged crimes against humanity related to Duterte’s deadly drug war.
Background:
- The Senate was first placed under lockdown on May 11 following a dramatic chase captured on CCTV, during which dela Rosa ran through hallways and stairs to reach the safety of his office.
- He has refused to leave the building, with Senate allies vowing to protect him from extradition to the ICC.
- Tensions remain high, with heavy police presence surrounding the compound.
