PNP to deploy 25K cops for SONA

At least 25,000 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be deployed in Metro Manila for the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

According to Tina Panganiban-Perez’s Tuesday report on “24 Oras,” around 8,000 police officers will be assigned to ensure public safety in the areas in Quezon City Memorial Circle and the House of Representatives.

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) earlier started the preparations and training of police officers for the possible scenarios during the SONA on July 24 including protests.

“For as long as they stick with what was agreed upon, walang problema. hindi para ang pulis ang magsimula ng aggression,” said QCPD Director Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III.

(For as long as they stick with what was agreed upon there will be no problem. The police will not start any aggression.)

Progressive group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), which will rally against the Maharlika Investment Fund, rising prices of basic commodities, and low wages, said it is also not anticipating any adverse incidents during the annual address.

“Nakipag-coordinate na po tayo sa Quezon City LGU. Nag-ocular inspection na tayo ng protest area kasama ang Quezon City Police,” said Bayan secretary general Mong Palatino.

(We coordinated with the Quezon City LGU and conducted an ocular inspection of the protest area with the QCPD.)

The Quezon City government has announced the suspension of classes in all private and public schools in the city in time for the SONA.—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News