News Release

Troop deployment for SONA, not an ‘overkill’ –Natividad



PASIG CITY, (PIA) — National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Police Major General Felipe Natividad clarified that the deployment of troops for the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr. on Monday, JUly 25 is not an overkill.

During a press conference Friday at the NCPO Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, the NCRPO clarified that there is no such thing as an ‘overkill’ when it comes to security and public safety.

“It is the primary call of the PNP to secure everyone including elected officials, more so if it is the highest leader of the land,” said the NCRPO chief. He further explained that the usual functions of all police units, stations/sub-stations, and police precincts will not be affected and posts will not be abandoned.

Natividad joined PNP’s Director for Operations, Police Major General Valeriano de Leon during the final inter-agency security and deployment conference for the upcoming SONA.

The NCRPO chief also led the send-off ceremony of 22,148 forces composed of police personnel, other support government agencies, and force multipliers.

Likewise, NCRPO advised the public to be aware of suggested alternative routes and traffic advisories from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

De Leon also reminded the organizers and leaders to responsibly check their vaccine cards, implement social distancing, wearing of facemasks, and other safety protocols during the conduct of rally.

Meanwhile, the PNP Officer-in-Charge, Lieutenant General Vicente Danao said that they will recalibrate its security deployment after the Quezon City government has allowed both supporters and progressive groups to hold gatherings during the SONA.

“We will abide by the decision of the city government and we will make the necessary adjustments just to ensure that we play no favor to any group. Our request is for them to conduct their mass protests peacefully,” said Danao.

Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) head retired Gen. Elmer San Diego announced that the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) and SANLAKAS groups will be allowed to march from Quezon City Circle to Tandang Sora.

While the standing order to police personnel is to practice maximum tolerance, Danao asked the protesters in return not to commit unruly acts so authorities won’t use the necessary force as authorized by law.

“Advance coordination with the concerned agencies and offices will be made to avoid confusion and inconvenience among the general public.” (NCRPO/PIA-NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/2022/07/23/troop-deployment-for-sona-not-an-overkill-natividad