MANILA — Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson raised concern over what he described as growing frustration within the armed services, warning that such sentiment could be exploited by destabilizing groups amid ongoing national challenges.

Lacson said he received what he described as “sketchy and raw” information suggesting that discontent may be present up to the battalion and regional levels of the armed forces.

“As per information, though still sketchy and raw, the level of frustration within the armed services has reached up to battalion and regional levels,” he said.

He added that personnel within the armed services are closely monitoring developments at the national level, which he said are influenced by both internal and external factors.

Lacson cited several issues he said are contributing to public and institutional concern, including developments in the Senate, flood control anomalies, inflation, and rising fuel prices.

He said members of the armed services are aware that past coup attempts have failed without civilian backing, noting that some personnel expressing frustration are “quietly” observing current developments.

“The danger is, if some unscrupulous and power-hungry destabilizers among some aligned political groups would take advantage by fanning the flame of discontent, rightly or wrongly, which could trigger widespread mass movements and protests,” he said.

Lacson’s statement comes as Senate President Pro Tempore and acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian earlier cited information from National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag regarding a potential threat to the Senate building and its premises.

Gatchalian stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and security of senators and Senate personnel amid the reported concerns.