After the detention of two Chinese nationals and three Filipinos, suspected in a shakedown in the Malacañang Palace, military and police decided to increase the level of security at the Malacañang Palace. During a press conference, the assistant press secretary of the president and the palace press officer, Klar Castro, called the situation "alarming" and announced the intention to enhance security at the palace, as well as to ensure the safety of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
"The news about the detention of suspects is indeed alarming, and we will continue to strengthen our efforts to counter the alleged shakedown," Castro stated. This decision was made after the National Bureau of Investigation arrested two Chinese nationals and three Filipinos on charges of extortion in Malacañang, army, and police.
