NCRPO finalizes security measures for SONA 2023

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) acting director Police Brigadier General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Sunday said security measures in Metro Manila were finalized a day ahead of the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

The NCRPO said the security plan for this year’s SONA included strategic personnel deployments, civil disturbance management, anti-criminality intervention, counter-terrorism, traffic management, and emergency response teams.

The police office also concluded inter-agency coordinating conferences to fully intensify public and safety security operations with the Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Presidential Security Group, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) NCR, Office of the Civil Defense, Philippine Coast Guard, Joint Task Force-NCR, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Marcos is set to deliver his second SONA on Monday, July 24, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

The NCRPO said they would use two Skydio drones, together with the Mobile Command Center Bus, for a wide range of aerial view coverage. The drones would be positioned to effectively monitor the movement of people and vehicles and prevent any untoward incidents.

Nartatez also said that the NCRPO would adhere to the guidance of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. to respect human rights and observe maximum tolerance with protesters.

“We plead for the cooperation of our fellowmen to follow the designated area where they can stage their protests. The police officers are not the rallyists' enemy. Together, our enemies are those lawless elements who might take advantage of the influx of people during the event,” he said in a statement.

Acorda had earlier appealed to protesters not to throw paint at cops during their activities during the SONA.

The police also promised to honor the permits issued to protesters by concerned local government units, adding that protesters would have designated areas to hold their program.

Nartatez also called on the public to remain vigilant amid the SONA activities.

"We encourage the public to be vigilant and alert. Do not hesitate to call the attention of police officers on the ground should they need help or assistance. Let us work hand and hand, do our share, and attain a peaceful and safe SONA 2023,” he added.

Around 23,000 PNP police officers, including force multipliers, would be deployed to ensure security during Marcos’ second SONA.

A gun ban would also be imposed in Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region (NCR) from 12:01 a.m. on July 24 until 12 midnight on July 25. — DVM, GMA Integrated News