House all set for Marcos’ ‘toned-down’ SONA 

The House of Representatives is “one hundred percent” ready for the fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona) of President Marcos, with security measures already in place, the chamber’s sergeant-at-arms said on Thursday.

Retired police Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Melchor Dela Cruz said that no disruptions are expected for the Sona, although authorities are prepared for possible disturbances outside the Batasang Pambansa complex.

“Inside the grounds, we don’t expect any problems with security,” Dela Cruz told reporters. “[But] of course, there are always outside events. Particularly now with different groups trying to influence our lawmakers and with the political landscape.”

“We cannot afford to have security breaches,” he added.

Contingency plans

The Philippine National Police has deployed about 22,000 officers to secure the Sona, according to Dela Cruz. Beyond security, the House is preparing contingency plans for “different scenarios,” including unexpected events such as earthquakes or other natural calamities, he said.

The Sona, held annually on the fourth Monday of July, serves as the President’s report on the country’s socioeconomic and political conditions and is traditionally marked by lavish preparations.

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But Dela Cruz said the House has “toned down” its preparations for this year’s address.

“If we compare it with previous years, we toned down our preparations as to guests and when it came to expenditures,” he said, attributing this to “crises that happened.” He did not elaborate.

Earlier last month, House Secretary General Cheloy Garafil said invited guests would be asked to wear modest clothing “in keeping with the times,” with no red carpets laid down. Preparations would also be kept “simple but dignified” for the event, she stressed.