Manila: The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be on full alert beginning 5 p.m. on July 24, as part of a comprehensive security strategy ahead of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) scheduled for July 27.
According to Philippines News Agency, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin announced on Wednesday that the security measures include enforcing a no-fly, no-drone zone in specified areas and the nationwide suspension of Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence on the day of the SONA. A total of 21,261 police personnel will be assigned to SONA security operations, with an additional 3,000 officers on standby from Police Regional Offices 2, 4B, and 5.
The deployment will cover the House of Representatives and Batasang Pambansa Complex, major roads, transport terminals, border control points, rally areas, government facilities, and other critical locations in Metro Manila. To manage public assemblies while upholding democratic values, 11,196 Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) personnel have been allocated.
Maj. Gen. Aberin emphasized that all deployed personnel have received comprehensive operational briefings, focusing on maximum tolerance, respecting human rights, and upholding the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and free expression. Security operations will adhere to the rule of law and Police Operational Procedures, balancing public safety with safeguarding democratic freedoms.
Temporary road closures and traffic rerouting will occur in selected areas around the Batasang Pambansa Complex and key routes. Motorists traveling northbound from Quezon Memorial Circle to Fairview may opt for North Avenue, Mindanao Avenue, Sauyo Road, or Quirino Highway before returning to Commonwealth Avenue. Southbound travelers may take Commonwealth Avenue, Sauyo Road or Quirino Highway, Mindanao Avenue, and North Avenue. The NCRPO and MMDA will provide updated traffic advisories to guide motorists and minimize public disruption.
NCRPO assured that security measures are in place to secure the SONA while continuing anti-criminality operations across Metro Manila. The public is encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement, follow traffic and security advisories, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the 911 Emergency Hotline.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) urged rally organizers to protect their ranks during the SONA and secure necessary permits while coordinating with local authorities. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized the importance of respecting police officers tasked with maintaining peace and order.
Besides the SONA, the PNP will also assist in securing the 112th founding anniversary of the Iglesia Ni Cristo on the same day. Gen. Nartatez assured the public that security measures are already in place and directed police chiefs to ensure the strategic deployment of personnel and resources at rally venues, emphasizing maximum tolerance amid these activities.
