SONA attendees up for a strict security check at House

MANILA, Philippines - Those attending President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's State of the Nation Address (SONA) are up for a thorough security check, with x-ray machines, K-9 units and private security guards deployed to the House of Representatives. Radio dzBB's Rowena Salvacion reported that x-ray machines were installed at the Batasan Complex's main lobby, and at the north and south wing entrances. Private security guards were deployed to the Lower House building along with police and military personnel. Those entering the building are required not only to present their ID cards but also to place their bags on the x-ray machines for scanning. Security officers there said they do not want to take chances that contraband or even explosives can be smuggled inside. In November last year, an explosion at the Batasan Complex killed Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and wounded three other lawmakers. - GMANews.TV