Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a full-scale investigation into two improvised explosive device incidents discovered hours before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address—a blast outside the Department of Justice in Manila and a separate device found near the Senate in Pasay City.
Despite the security threats, Nartatez assured that tight security measures across key areas, particularly the Batasan Pambansa complex, successfully prevented any disruption to the annual address.
More than 21,000 police officers, alongside personnel from various government agencies, were deployed for the event.
“Ang kasamaan ay hindi magwawagi kailanman. They tried but failed to disrupt SONA. Now, it’s our turn to unmask all the people behind these two incidents. And we are committed to hold them responsible,” Nartatez stated.
Investigators are evaluating whether the two events were coordinated in a foiled bid to undermine the address.
“There is a big possibility that these two incidents are related. I trust that our investigators will get to the bottom of this similar to how criminal incidents were immediately solved.”
The explosion occurred around midnight along Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila, directly in front of the DOJ headquarters. Hours later, authorities recovered another IED along Diokno Boulevard near the Senate.
Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing eyewitnesses to trace those responsible.
Nartatez emphasized that high-alert security protocols activated over the weekend kept the perpetrators from executing larger-scale plans.
The PNP is partnering with joint intelligence and investigative units to identify the motives and file criminal charges against the suspects. Nationwide police units remain on high alert to prevent further threats.
“Let me assure the public that our personnel will remain vigilant as we continue to maintain heightened alert against any possible attacks,” Nartatez said.