The Manila Times

Palace urges authorities to probe alleged June 12 attack plan

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang called on law enforcement agencies to act on reports about an alleged plan by Vice President Sara Duterte’s supporters to attack Malacañang on June 12. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the statement after columnist Ramon Tulfo claimed on social media that intelligence reports discussed during a meeting in Camp Crame allegedly involved a plan by pro-Duterte groups to "storm Malacañang" on Independence Day. "It is within the mandate of law enforcement agencies and investigating bodies to act on these kinds of illegal activities," Castro said in a statement. Tulfo, in a Facebook post, claimed that the Philippine National Police had received intelligence reports of a planned attack “by a religious sect” which he did not identify. Castro, however, said authorities have yet to verify the supposed plot. She urged the public to remain cautious against groups allegedly seeking to exploit political tensions. "Let us all be wary of the forces of darkness," the Palace official said. "But actions like these are nothing new, as they have long wanted to install their leader who is greedy for power, even before 2028," she added. The President is expected to lead the country’s Independence Day celebrations on June 12, although details of the event have yet to be announced.