PNP on alert for possible protests over US action vs Venezuela

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed its units on alert for possible protest actions following reports of a United States military operation against Venezuela.

PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units are closely monitoring the United States Embassy and other critical locations for any planned demonstrations.

Police forces in Metro Manila and other urban centers have been instructed to remain on standby to respond to potential protest activities.

“We are prepared for any protest action and similar activities. Our police units, especially in Metro Manila and other urban areas, are monitoring the situation in their respective areas and ready to respond to any eventuality,” Nartatez told reporters on Monday.

Security monitoring has been heightened around the US Embassy and other sensitive areas, with additional police personnel deployed in strategic locations to prevent possible disturbances.

According to Nartatez, there are no confirmed protest actions at this time, but authorities are anticipating that some groups may organize demonstrations in response to recent developments abroad.

The PNP chief said he has directed local police units—particularly the Metro Manila Police District and the National Capital Region Police Office—to coordinate closely with local government units and barangay officials to monitor the situation on the ground.

Intelligence units have also been tasked to track social media platforms and public forums for information on planned protest activities or potential security threats.

The heightened alert follows reports that the US military launched a large-scale operation against Venezuela on January 3, involving air and ground actions reportedly targeting narcotics trafficking and criminal networks linked to the Venezuelan government. Reports also claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured and brought to New York to face charges.

In the Philippines, several groups and lawmakers have since called on the national government to condemn the reported US military action.