Police forces across Metro Manila have been placed on full alert to secure the Batasang Pambansa Complex and surrounding areas ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27.
Over 21,000 security personnel have been mobilized under a comprehensive plan led by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
The security contingent—launched during a send-off ceremony at Camp PMGEN Tomas B. Karingal in Quezon City—includes NCRPO personnel alongside units from PNP headquarters, the Special Action Force, and regional police offices.
Key deployment sites, including Commonwealth Avenue, IBP Road, and nearby government offices, have already been inspected to assess emergency routes and security coordination. NCRPO chief and Special Task Force SONA 2026 commander PMGEN Anthony Aberin reaffirmed the force’s readiness for the annual event.
“We maintain firm, unwavering control to ensure a safe, orderly, and peaceful SONA 2026,” Aberin said.
Authorities are preparing for various activist groups, including Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Sanlakas, and Better Brighter, to hold protests during the address.
PNP public information chief PCol. Allen Rae Co emphasized that while demonstrators will be treated with maximum tolerance, illegal acts will be strictly prohibited.
“Kung may magsusunog, it is not allowed. Not only yung mga effigy anything na magsusunog ka is not allowed,” Co cautioned.
“We will exhaust all peaceful means para mapigilan ang mga illegal na gawain. But kung hindi matitigil, we will have to act more decisively.”
With large crowds of supporters, protesters, and dignitaries set to gather at the House of Representatives, law enforcement is urging the public to follow traffic advisories and report suspicious activities through the 911 hotline.