Security measures are now in place as the Philippine National Police (PNP) started to complete the phased deployment of more than 21,000 policemen near the Batasan Pambansa in Quezon City and other strategic areas for the 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Marcos.

As of Sunday, July 26, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said they are already in the final phase of security preparations, adding that it is set to be completed hours before the SONA as real-time security adjustments will also be factored in.

“All security protocols have been completed and we are already in the process of phased deployment in areas that require police presence. We’ve done this before, we prepared for this important event—and we are ready,” said Nartatez.

He then reminded police commanders and personnel to strictly observe maximum tolerance while carrying out their duties. He also urged rally participants to cooperate with authorities and respect existing regulations to help ensure a peaceful event.

“Our personnel are also ready to secure protest actions across the country. We likewise ask for the cooperation of everyone who will participate in the rallies,” said Nartatez.

No threat

Nartatez said the PNP has not monitored any serious security threat related to this year's SONA. He assured the public that the police remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any developing situation.

“The PNP has not monitored any serious security threat related to the SONA. However, we remain vigilant against any attempt to disrupt peace and order during the event," he said.

Police forces in Metro Manila are already in full alert status while stricter gun measures will be implemented on Monday.

Also, no fly zone and no drone zone will also be implemented in some areas aside from the Batasan Pambansa where Marcos will delier his speech. 

Alert vs provocateurs

Three major groups were already allowed to hold activities for SONA and the PNP called on their organizers to protect their own ranks by preventing provocateurs from disrupting peaceful demonstrations.

Nartatez emphasized that no rally organizers in their right mind would plan to make their demonstrations violent and compromise the safety of their members, adding that they all have the obligation to ensure that lawful assemblies remain peaceful from start to finish.

“We call on all rally organizers to protect their own ranks and remain vigilant against outside provocateurs who might take advantage of the demonstrations to instigate violence,” Nartatez said.

The Quezon City government approved permits for three groups to stage rallies along Commonwealth Avenue on July 27 during SONA—Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Sanlakas, and Better Brighter.

“Our security forces are fully prepared to uphold the rule of law but mutual cooperation, rooted in self-regulation and adherence to approved permit guidelines, is vital to keeping the upcoming SONA peaceful and orderly for everyone,” Nartatez noted.

The PNP Chief directed all police personnel assigned to SONA security to strictly observe maximum tolerance, comply with established crowd management protocols, and respect human rights throughout their operations.

He also ordered the use of body-worn cameras and other recording equipment during police operations to promote transparency and accountability.