Security, health measures set at House ahead of Duterte’s SONA

Security and health measures have been set at the Batasang Pambansa complex in Quezon City ahead of the opening of the Second Regular Session of the House of Representatives and President Rodrigo Duterte's fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday.

In an online briefing last week, House officials said strict security and health protocols will be implemented to ensure the safety of individuals physically attending the President's SONA.

At the entrance of the North Gate of the complex facing the central office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, a booth has been set up manned by security personnel to check individuals entering.

Upon entry to the House Main Building, disinfection booths have also been put up.

LOOK: Security and health measures have been set up at the House of Representatives for today’s opening of the Second Regular Session and President Duterte’s SONA.

(Contributed photos) pic.twitter.com/8o2WbVAvfg

— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) July 27, 2020

On Sunday and earlier Monday, House members and personnel physically present throughout the SONA day underwent swab and rapid testing for COVID-19.

LOOK: House employees undergo rapid testing ahead of President Duterte’s SONA this afternoon. They also took a swab test yesterday as part of the health protocols set by the House of Representatives.

(Contributed photos) @gmanews pic.twitter.com/GgksL0bu15

— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) July 27, 2020

Only those who will test negative for both tests will be allowed to attend the SONA physically.

Foot markings have also been placed at some areas at the House of Representatives to remind people to observe social distancing.

LOOK: Foot markings have also been placed at areas at the House of Representatives to remind people to observe social distancing.

(Contributed photos) pic.twitter.com/faOpRjui68

— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) July 27, 2020

After the opening of the Second Regular Session in the morning, the plenary hall will be closed for disinfection, and will only be opened by 2 p.m. to allow SONA attendees to come inside, he added.

Minimum health standards will also be strictly observed throughout the day, such as wearing of face masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment at all times, provision of alcohol and sanitizers, checking of body temperature, disinfection of surfaces, and submission of health declaration forms.

Persons with temperature reading of 37.5 or higher will not be allowed entry and will be directed to quarantine tents to be attended by medical personnel.

Duterte's penultimate SONA is set to take place at 4 p.m. later. — RSJ, GMA News