The House of Representatives has set a grand stage for another historic presidential address.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said preparations for President Marcos’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22 have been successful, with the final interagency meeting among the Office of the President, both Houses of Congress, and other agencies held last July 15.
“The anticipation within the hallowed halls of this august chamber is palpable as we stand ready to hear and appreciate the accomplishments of the Marcos administration,” Romualdez said.
“It fills me with immense pride to recognize the significant role that the House of Representatives has played in crafting legislation and policies that promote the welfare of all Filipinos. We are excited for the President’s SONA because we know he has many positive developments to share with the nation,” he said.
The House will implement a lockdown starting July 18 as part of the preparation for the President’s SONA.
At least 22,000 police officers will secure the SONA, and 6,000 will be deployed near the Batasang Pambansa Complex where Marcos will deliver his address, said the Philippine National Police.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said only authorized individuals will be given access inside the Batasan Complex in Quezon City.
He said invitations have already been sent to the guests and an estimated 2,000 individuals are expected to attend.
Romualdez said that while the SONA will largely reflect on the successes of the Marcos administration, it will also outline the President’s plans for the coming years, including the role of Congress in bringing government programs to fruition for the Filipino people.
“This important address will provide a comprehensive overview of the administration’s progress and set the stage for future legislative initiatives that will shape the nation’s path forward,” the Speaker emphasized.
“And we, at the House of Representatives, are united with the President in his desire to advance the many reforms and programs he will announce during the SONA. This is a time for unity, and we fully support our President,” he said.
Meanwhile, Velasco echoed the Speaker’s statements and declared the readiness of the House of Representatives to receive President Marcos, the senators led by Senate President Francis Escudero, Cabinet members, and other esteemed guests and dignitaries.
“I’m happy to report that the House of Representatives is ready, willing, and able to welcome all the guests to this third SONA of the President,” Velasco said.
He said preparations include traffic rerouting plans and the timely distribution of official SONA invitations to former leaders, government officials, major stakeholders, and other important guests, including members of the diplomatic community.
The arrival scenario and security measures were discussed during the final interagency meeting, , ensuring a comprehensive plan is in place to deploy law enforcement personnel to safeguard all attendees and maintain order.
House Sergeant-at-Arms retired Police Maj. Gen. Napoleon Taas said detailed security arrangements have been made to ensure a peaceful and orderly event, involving multiple security agencies.
Velasco said detailed medical protocols have been established to handle any health emergencies, with medical teams and facilities on standby to ensure the well-being of participants.
