PNP to deploy 12K cops for Marcos' 4th SONA, activates ‘Manila Shield’

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to deploy approximately 12,000 personnel to ensure security during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.

In a media interview, PNP spokesperson P/BGen. Jean Fajardo said the massive deployment will include police units from Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) as part of the activation of “Manila Shield,” a security framework designed to tighten border controls and maintain order in the capital.

A standby reserve force will also be on alert to provide reinforcement if necessary.

Fajardo said PNP Chief Gen. Nicholas Torre II has ordered the NCRPO to carry out a comprehensive threat assessment to determine whether adjustments are needed to the existing security template. This includes evaluating the estimated number of individuals expected to participate in rallies or other public gatherings, both in support of and against the administration.

”If there is a need to adjust po ‘yong mga nakasanayan na nating security template, at magbibigay po sila ng updated na threat estimates including po ‘yong possible number ng mga magka-conduct ng mga activities, particularly ‘yong mga rallies, both pro and anti (Our PNP chief has ordered the NCRPO to conduct an honest-to-goodness threat assessment. If there is a need to adjust the usual security template, they will provide updated threat estimates, including the possible number of individuals participating in activities, particularly both pro- and anti-administration rallies),” she said.

Meanwhile, Fajardo noted that no rally permit applications have been filed so far by groups intending to protest during the President’s SONA.

Authorities, however, are proactively coordinating with organizers to ensure any demonstrations remain peaceful and orderly.

Rallies will be confined to the designated freedom zone along Tandang Sora Avenue near Commonwealth, while the main police command post will be set up at the Batasan Police Station.

The PNP is also working closely with the Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives to finalize security protocols in and around the Batasang Pambansa complex.

This year’s SONA marks the midpoint of President Marcos Jr.’s term, and authorities are preparing for a potentially high turnout of both supporters and demonstrators.