The House of Representatives will be on lockdown beginning Thursday, July 20, in preparation for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) next week.

"The lockdown will commence on Thursday," House Secretary General Reginald Velasco told House reporters on the sidelines of a pre-SONA walk-through on Monday, July 17,

This year's SONA, which is Marcos' second in his term as President, will take place on Monday, July 24, 2023.

Located in Batasan Complex in Quezon City, the House traditionally hosts the President's annual speech. The lockdown, which normally lasts three to four days, is part of the standard operating procedure (SOP) and preparations for the SONA.

Despite the looming lockdown at the House, Velasco assured reporters that they can still access the area during the period if they need to.

"If you want access to the House of Representatives, you can talk with our media coordinator. As you know, we are open to you," he said.

At any rate, Velasco said that the House is now "95 percent" ready for the SONA, which will be attended by the rest of the First Family, members of the House and Senate, living former Philippine presidents, and foreign dignitaries.

July 24 also marks the start of the second regular session in the current 19th Congress.