PNP: Security measures in place for canvassing

The Philippine National Police assured Monday it has put in place all security measures when Congress convenes in a joint session this week to canvass the votes for president and vice president. Radio dzBB's Benjie Liwanag Jr. reported that PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa ordered security for both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Verzosa also ordered full security for the route that the convoy delivering the ballot boxes will take, from the Senate in Pasay City to the Batasan Complex in Quezon City. He also ordered concerned units in the Metro Manila police to alert all district directors to ensure the transfer of the ballot boxes goes smoothly. Both houses of Congress were to convene Monday and start on Tuesday the canvassing of votes for president and vice president.

Last Saturday, presidential spokesman Ricardo Saludo said the canvassing should pave the way for a smooth transition of power. (See: Palace expects canvassing to start smooth transition of power) Security has been tightened at both houses of Congress, especially at the House of Representatives in Quezon City where the canvassing will be held. Once a common set of rules is approved, the lawmakers will convene together at the Batasan complex where they will canvass the votes for, and proclaim the winning presidential and vice presidential candidates. — RSJ, GMANews.TV