The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy over 20,000 officers to Quezon City’s Batasang Pambansa to secure the area as security preparations enter their final phase for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed all National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) units to inspect their deployment plans, according to a news release over the weekend.
Nartatez said the PNP is fully prepared to secure the SONA while respecting the rights of individuals and groups to peacefully express their views in accordance with the law.
Thousands are expected at the President’s annual address, alongside various cause-oriented groups that traditionally stage demonstrations during the event.
“I remind every police officer to exercise maximum restraint. Remain professional at all times. Respect the constitutional rights of every Filipino. Our duty is to maintain peace and public safety while ensuring that lawful assemblies can proceed peacefully,” Nartatez said.
The President delivers the SONA every year on the last Monday of July to report on the state of the country, unveil the administration’s agenda, and ask Congress to pass priority measures. (PNA)