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Western Visayas on High Alert: 5,000 Personnel Deployed for SONA
Approximately 5,000 security personnel, including police, military, and community volunteers, have been deployed across Western Visayas to ensure a safe and peaceful State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27. Authorities emphasize public safety and vigilance.
The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) has announced its complete readiness for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2026, deploying nearly 5,000 personnel and force multipliers across Western Visayas to guarantee a safe, peaceful, and orderly environment on Monday, July 27. A total of 4,826 security personnel will be mobilized for the annual address of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The contingent comprises 3,905 officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP), 117 augmentation personnel from partner agencies—including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)—and 804 force multipliers composed of community volunteers and advocacy groups. Deployed units will carry out targeted security operations, including heightened police visibility, foot and mobile patrols, traffic management, medical response coordination, checkpoint and border controls, and civil disturbance management. Additionally, Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) and the Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) are placed on high alert for immediate dispatch in case of contingency. Special security coverage will be designated at Freedom Parks, public assembly sites, and other venues expected to hold gatherings or events related to the Sona. Police Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño, PRO6 Acting Director, emphasized that security operations are centered on maintaining peace, protecting the public, and upholding human rights. “PRO6 is fully prepared to ensure a safe and peaceful Sona 2026. We have directed all our personnel to remain vigilant, disciplined, professional, and ready to respond to any eventuality. Public safety and security are our top priorities,” Tuaño said. Tuaño also appealed to the public for full cooperation with local authorities, urging residents to adhere to security measures, maintain vigilance, and immediately report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Unified Emergency Hotline 911.
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Inquirer NewsInfo