READ: What to expect in Marcos’ first SONA
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 20) — The Presidential Security Group (PSG) on Wednesday said it is in the final stages of preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 25.
“These preparations are being planned since last week,” PSG Commander Ramon Zagala told reporters. “We are prepared, in coordination with the Philippine National Police, so that everything will run smooth from the time he arrives, he delivers the SONA, until he returns to Malacañan Palace.”
Zagala said they have so far not monitored any threat that could derail the event at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, but he assured that there will be immediate action should the need arise.
“All this information we receive, we consider important and we verify. For now, everything is okay,” he said.
The official opted not to specify the number of PSG personnel to be deployed to ensure the safety of the President and SONA attendees.
Earlier, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said nearly 22,000 cops will be on duty for the event.
The NCRPO also said a gun ban will be imposed in Metro Manila from July 22 to July 27 and that stricter police inspections should be expected in checkpoints.
