From cutting-edge drones manning the skies to more than 22,000 policemen and augmentation forces on the ground, authorities spared no effort in securing the 2nd State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. today (July 24, 2023)
“The importance of these drones cannot be overstated. Embracing technological advancements, such as these drones, enhances our capabilities and allows us to carry out our duties with even greater efficiency and effectiveness,” PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda said.
Police and security personnel coming from the National Capital Region Police Office and five police district offices – Northern, Southern, Eastern, Manila and Quezon City – are deployed to safeguard key areas for the SONA.
Additional forces were also dispatched from various government agencies such as Aviation Security Group, Special Action Force, Joint Task Force NCR, Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Office of the Civil Defense, Department of Health, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and Philippine Red Cross.
NCRPO chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police has set up 31 entry and exit points around Metro Manila.
Authorities also enforced a “No Fly Zone / No Drone Zone” in and adjacent to the airspace of the Batasang Pambansa.
From 12:01 a.m. to 12 midnight today (July 24), all Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence in Metro Manila are likewise suspended.
The Batasang Pambansa Complex, where the House of Representatives is situated, was placed under lockdown from July 20 to 23.
House Engineering and Physical Facilities Department (EPFD) Executive Director Renato Dela Torre said contingency measures have been put in place, foremost of which is an evacuation plan to ensure the safety of the attendees.
Dela Torre said the evacuation plan includes emergency scenarios such as earthquake, fire and even terrorism.
“Public awareness regarding safety measures is taken seriously,” he said.
Dela Torre said the EPFD’s preparations for this year’s SONA have been ongoing for months, covering the House Plenary Hall, road networks, grounds and buildings, sound system and electrical works.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said aside from the SONA, the House workforce also prepared for the opening of the Second Regular Session of the 19th Congress.
He said additional preparations include testing of the equipment and sound system, guest route inspections, cleaning and sanitation procedures, and other last-minute adjustments.
Acorda said so far, the government has monitored no possible threat even as he appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcers.
The NCRPO and the Quezon City government earlier asked cause-oriented groups and other protesters to secure permit from the local government prior to their activities, saying a “No Permit, No Rally” policy will be imposed.
“The safety and well-being of every citizen, regardless of their political beliefs, must remain our top priority,” Acorda said.