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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Recto to law enforcers: Respect dissent, but remain firm against violence during SONA

Recto to law enforcers: Respect dissent, but remain firm against violence during SONA

Published Jul 22, 2026 06:46 pm
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto (OES)
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto (OES)
Respect the people's right to freedom of expression while remaining firm against violence during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Marcos next week, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto told law enforcement authorities.
Recto made the directive during a meeting with the security cluster as part of the Executive Department's preparation for the SONA on Monday, July 27.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 22, Recto told law enforcers to respect the constitutional rights of the people to express their views.
He emphasized the importance of striking a balance between enforcing the law and respecting people's rights.
“Igalang ang hindi pagsang-ayon, ngunit maging matatag laban sa karahasan, kaguluhan, at anumang banta sa kaligtasan ng publiko (Respect dissent, but remain firm against violence, disorder, and any threat to public safety)," Recto said.
The Executive Secretary also directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to intensify their coordination on security, traffic flow, and crowd management during the SONA.
Recto added that one focus of the preparations is ensuring a quick response to incidents that may cause disruptions or pose risks to commuters.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Presidential Security Command (PSC) have also assured the public that they have security measures in place for the event. 
“Siguruhin nating magiging mapayapa at maayos ang SONA para sa lahat. Dapat handa tayo, magkakaugnay ang ating pagkilos, at mabilis ang ating pagtugon sa anumang sitwasyon (Let us ensure that the SONA is peaceful and orderly for everyone. We must be prepared, coordinate our actions, and respond swiftly to any situation)," he said.
The Executive Secretary also stressed the need for all agencies to work in close coordination, with clearly defined roles and continuous communication.
According to Recto, the true measure of successful preparations is not only the security inside the SONA venue but also the safety, order, and smooth movement of the public in the surrounding areas.
The President is set to deliver his fifth SONA on Monday at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

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SONA President Marcos Ralph G. Recto law enforcement
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