NCRPO to Implement Full Alert for President Marcos’ 2024 SONA

MANILA — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will initiate a full alert status starting Sunday as a precautionary measure for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s upcoming third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

According to Philippines News Agency, the full alert, representing the highest level of police readiness, will involve 23,000 officers, supplemented by an additional 1,000 from Central Luzon and Calabarzon. This measure restricts any leave for police personnel to ensure maximum availability. Nartatez made these remarks during a send-off ceremony at the Quezon City Police District headquarters, highlighting the minimal threat level in Metro Manila but emphasizing the need for comprehensive security due to the expected presence of 2,000 VIPs, including diplomats, and anticipated protests by 8,000 to 10,000 individuals.

Additionally, Nartatez reassured that the extensive deployment is a necessary precaution to ensure a seamless and peaceful event, rejecting any notions of overreaction. A gun ban will also be enforced in Metro Manila from Saturday through the end of Monday. PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil supported these preparations, drawing on lessons from past security breaches, such as the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, to maintain rigorous standards.

Marbil further stated that the PNP is coordinating closely with various agencies, including the Presidential Security Group, the military, and the National Bureau of Investigation, to safeguard the SONA venue at the Batasang Pambansa Complex. He also called on protesters to maintain peace and not disrupt public order during the event.