National events in the Philippines, such as the State of the Nation Address (SONA), play a significant role in shaping the country’s identity, governance, and unity. The annual SONA is a symbol of democratic governance and national transparency, where the President reports on the state of the country and outlines the administration’s agenda. Given its importance, ensuring the security of this event is not only necessary—it is crucial. Relevantly, the Philippine National Police (PNP) plays a primary role in thoroughly managing all security aspects for the upcoming national event.
Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief, PNP, convened a 4:00 AM Command Conference on July 8, 2025 at the PNP Main Conference Room to finalize security preparations for the 4th SONA of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. scheduled on July 28. Present at the early morning meeting were the PNP Command Group; the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Regional Director; District Directors of Manila Police District (MPD), Quezon City Police District (QCPD), Northern Police District (NPD), Eastern Police District (EPD), and Southern Police District (SPD); as well as the Directors for Operations, Investigation and Detection Management, Intelligence, and Police Community Relations.
During the conference, PGen Torre emphasized the importance of starting the day early – a gesture of commitment and respect by PNP personnel in recognition of the public’s trust and support for the PNP’s programs. “Rising early is the least we can do to repay the support of our countrymen,” said PGen Torre. He also underscored how unity, vigilance, and proactive leadership are essential to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of SONA.
Notably, the day before the conference, the PNP Chief had mentioned that the Nation’s Peacekeeper had begun coordinating with the House of the Representatives’ Sergeant-at-Arms and other concerned offices to help ensure the peaceful conduct of the President’s annual address. He also assured the public of the appropriate deployment of PNP personnel, with heightened visibility in critical areas surrounding the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City.
In a press briefing following the Command Conference, PBGen Jean S. Fajardo, PNP Spokesperson and Director for Comptrollership, announced that a total of 11,949 police officers from NCRPO and neighboring Police Regional Offices (PROs), such as PRO 3 (Central Luzon) and PRO 4A (CALABARZON) will be deployed for this year’s SONA. PBGen Fajardo also directed the concerned police units and offices, particularly NCRPO, to conduct an “honest-to-goodness” threat assessment to identify potential risks and adjust security templates if necessary.
Overall, the Philippine National Police is taking proactive measures to protect the public and maintain order during the 2025 SONA. This reflects not only its commitment to public safety but also its vital contribution to national pride and unity.
