Senate of the Philippines at the GSIS Buidling in Pasay City. Jonathan Cellona ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA (UPDATED) — Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed Wednesday that the Senate received a bomb threat in its social media account Tuesday, prompting tighter security in its premises today.

"Yes… through the Senate’s social media account... While it was not considered as a credible and serious threat, the OSAA (Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms) is nevertheless taking the necessary precautions," Escudero said.

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Senate Secretary Renato Bantug also confirmed that a threat was received.

"May nag-post ng threat sa Senate Facebook page yesterday morning. Most likely by a prankster since nag-post din kung saan-saan yung account. But OSAA implemented security protocols per [Standard Operating Procedure] starting yesterday just to be sure," Bantug said.

OSAA WORKING WITH AGENCIES ON 'THREAT'

All vehicles entering the complex are now subjected to thorough security inspections. Vehicles have to open their windows and be checked before gaining entry into the premises.

"As a safeguard, the Senate premises had been thoroughly inspected by security and police personnel," Senate spokesperson Arnel Jose Bañas later said.

"We had also instructed our Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms to work closely with concerned agencies regarding the matter," he said.

Wednesday is the last day before Congress goes on its three-week Christmas break. 

In a separate advisory to employees, Bantug said that on Escudero's instructions, all employees, except those from OSAA and maintenance on shifting, can skip work beginning December 20, Friday, to give them time to celebrate the holidays. 

Regular work schedule will resume on January 6, 2025, Monday.

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