DILG says security measures in place for SONA 2026

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Wednesday that all security measures are ready for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27.

"Yes, we are ready. In fact, command conference namin tungkol dito ngayon. We have 20,000 police now deployed, and we are ready for any contingencies," said Remulla in a statement.

Starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 24, the Philippine National Police-National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will go on full alert status.

But the NCRPO also said that routine anti-crime measures and visible police patrols will proceed uninterrupted.

The PNP has also tightened security around key protest sites, such as the Batasang Pambansa, People Power Monument, Malacañang, Liwasang Bonifacio, the Pasay City Senate, and the US Embassy.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) earlier released a list of alternate routes, as heavy traffic is expected along Commonwealth Avenue, IBP Road and other major thoroughfares adjacent to the House of Representatives. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BM, GMA News