PSG says PRRD safe despite death threats
FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on April 20, 2020. ACE MORANDANTE/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
The PSG gave the assurance following the arrest of two individuals who offered reward money to any person who can kill Duterte.
In a press statement, the PSG said it is ready “at all times and at all costs” to address the death threats against Duterte, including those that are posted on social media.
“The Presidential Security Group (PSG) ensures the safety of the President and the seat of government at all times, and at all costs.
This mandate encompasses not only physical protection but also grave threats coming from the cyber environment,” it said.
A 40-year-old construction worker identified as Ronald Quiboyen was arrested in Malay, Aklan on Tuesday after he purportedly posted on his Facebook account his offer of PHP100-million reward to anyone who can kill Duterte.
Before this, Ronald Mas, a 25-year-old public school teacher, was also arrested because of his post on his Twitter account about his supposed offer of PHP50-million bounty to anyone willing to kill Duterte.
The PSG welcomed the arrest of the suspects.
It stressed that posting grave threats against Duterte on social media clearly incites sedition and is a violation of Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
It said it would take seriously all the threats against Duterte, as well as his family.
“Anyone who violates will be held liable and will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the PSG said.
Duterte is currently at Malacañan Palace in Manila to monitor the government’s response to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
The PSG said it would continue working with authorities, as it acknowledged that digital media platforms are being used by security threat groups against Duterte and his government.
“As such, PSG will continuously work with the law enforcement agencies, such as the National Bureau of Investigation and Philippine National Police, to monitor and apprehend those who are responsible for such acts,” it said.
The PSG expressed hope that netizens would be responsible for using social media platforms by making “useful contributions” amid the country’s fight against Covid-19.
It also appealed to them not to violate any law in expressing personal views and opinions.
“PSG also recognizes and appreciates all concerned netizens who made valuable contributions in protecting the President, and the nation as a whole,” it added.
