Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday assured the public that all security preparations are in place for the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., saying authorities are ready to ensure a safe and orderly event.

In an interview, Remulla said more than 20,000 personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) have already been deployed as part of the government’s comprehensive security operations, with contingency measures in place for various scenarios.

“Yes, we are ready. In fact, command conference namin tungkol dito ngayon. We have 20,000 police now deployed, and we are ready for any contingencies,” Remulla said.

The DILG Secretary said coordination meetings and command conferences among concerned agencies are ongoing to finalize operational plans and ensure seamless inter-agency coordination ahead of the President’s address.

The Department emphasized that heightened security measures are intended to protect the public and maintain peace and order amid reports of planned mass demonstrations in parts of Metro Manila during the SONA.

As part of these preparations, the PNP-National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be placed under full alert status beginning 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026. The NCRPO said regular anti-criminality operations and police visibility efforts will continue without interruption while security operations for the SONA are underway.

The PNP has likewise heightened security at traditional demonstration areas, including the Batasang Pambansa and People Power Monument in Quezon City, Malacañang, Liwasang Bonifacio, the Senate in Pasay City, and the United States Embassy.

Meanwhile, Remulla said the administration remains focused on delivering results, expressing optimism that sustained gains in governance and public service will continue to strengthen public confidence.

“The economy is surprisingly resilient. Inflation is controlled. Crime is down. I think with the resolution of some cases, with the arrest of some unwanted persons, with the conclusion of the flood-control, tingin ko aakyat din ‘yan,” he said.