PNP: No SONA security threats

MANILA, Philippines — No credible and serious security threats will disrupt President Marcos’ State of the Nation Address (SONA) today, according to the Philippine National Police.

Up to 21,642 PNP officers have been deployed across Metro Manila.

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

The anniversary celebration of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), which coincides with the SONA, is being monitored by Metro Manila police.

INC activities will remain inside church compounds, including the central complex along Commonwealth Avenue, police said.

No gun ban will be imposed, Metro Manila police spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo said, noting that the latest security assessment did not warrant the suspension of permits to carry firearms.

Inspections were completed at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

Assembly zones of cause-oriented groups have been secured.

Nartatez reminded police to adhere to human rights protocols and maintain maximum tolerance during interactions with demonstrators.

The Quezon City government has issued rally permits to three groups: Better Brighter Movement, Sanlakas and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan.

Police said about 60,000 protesters may join demonstrations, with each group projecting around 20,000 participants.