July 27, 2025 | Quezon City
Authorities confirmed on Sunday that preparations are complete for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), set to take place at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on Monday, July 28.
According to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), there are currently no serious threats monitored that could disrupt the event. Police Major Hazel Asilo, NCRPO spokesperson, said that the agency has been closely working with the intelligence community to ensure public safety.
Under the leadership of NCRPO Chief Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin, security forces remain on high alert. A total of 22,987 personnel from various units—including 16,600 NCRPO officers and over 6,000 support personnel from Regions 3 and 4A—have been mobilized for the annual address.
Asilo also confirmed that rally groups—both supporting and opposing the government—have been granted permits by the Quezon City government. However, these are subject to conditions to maintain peace and order. Demonstrators from all sides will only be allowed up to St. Peter’s Parish Church to ensure neutrality.
Traffic and Flood Prevention in Place
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Romando Artes also reported that the MMDA is fully prepared for the event, particularly in terms of traffic and flood control.
To ease traffic flow along Commonwealth Avenue, the agency will implement a counterflow or zipper lane system to accommodate guests, including foreign dignitaries attending the event.
In preparation for possible heavy rains, the MMDA has installed temporary pumps to quickly redirect water to nearby creeks and prevent flooding. Drainage inlets along Commonwealth Avenue have also been widened, with support from San Miguel Corporation, to allow faster water flow during downpours.
Artes disclosed that some drainage inlets were previously removed or reduced in size, although the current MRT-7 contractor claimed no knowledge of the changes. As a temporary fix, MMDA has installed additional large inlets and pumps to ensure smooth drainage.
Artes stressed that the agency is focused on finding solutions rather than assigning blame. He added that their goal is to sustain this flood control program throughout the rainy season and improve road conditions in the long run.
The MMDA also reminded motorists that the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) will remain enforced along Commonwealth Avenue during the SONA.
