Malacañang Park, Manila — The Presidential Security Group is ready for the sixth and last State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte which he will deliver on July 26, 2023 at the Batasang Pambansa.
The Presidential Security Group has activated its Task Force for SONA 2021 headed by the PSG Chief of Staff, COLONEL NELSON C ALUAD PA, as early as May this year for early planning and preparation with regard to security. With less than a week to go, a series of security and inter-agency meetings, to include ocular and site inspections have already been conducted in close coordination with involved government and security agencies, counterparts and stakeholders.
A simulation exercise (SIMEX) with the augmentation elements from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police (PNP) was also held on July 9, 2023 to evaluate the overall readiness of all the involved agencies that will secure the momentous event. Another SIMEX is expected today at the venue.
These meticulous preparations are set to ensure the safety and security of the President and all of the attendees from all forms of threats, to include COVID-19 virus.
Likewise, the PSG Group Commander BGEN JESUS P DURANTE III PA have said in prior interview, “We will not let our guards down and we shall employ layers of security measures to neutralize any threat. PSG is prepared for any contingency, thus, we will implement our highest security protocols in 360-degree, to secure our President and ensure the success of his SONA at all costs.”
Given the COVID-19 situation, health security protocols will be strictly enforced, while minimizing the number of attendees inside the plenary. VTC, online and live streaming platforms will also be optimized for the media coverage and cater guests/attendees who will not be physically present.
The TF SONA 2021 will intensify its protective security operations in the coming days and will continue to conduct routine and random inspections at the venue. With this, the Presidential Security Group together with its security counterparts is ready to secure the President, the first family, other VIPs and guests.
