Cops set to tighten security around Sona

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has created a “super task force” to ensure the peace around President Aquino’s second State of the Nation Address (Sona) when Congress resumes sessions on July 25.

“The PNP will ensure that the President’s second Sona will be safe, secure and successful. We will thwart all possible threats,” said PNP Director General Raul M. Bacalzo in a statement.

Bacalzo had ordered the creation of “Super Task Force Kapayapaan (Peace)” and designated Chief Supt. Alan Purisima, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director, as commander.

Purisima was tasked to supervise all security operations in Metro Manila in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the government agencies concerned.

Police checkpoints will be set up on all major thoroughfares and mobile and foot patrols will be intensified, said PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz Jr.

Support will come from PNP headquarters, national units, the directorial staff and regional offices 1, 2, 3, 4A and 5.

On top of the NCRPO’s forces, the five regional offices will put some 1,500 civil disturbance management troops on standby.

Aside from the AFP, the Presidential Security Group and other agencies will help secure the Sona, Cruz said.

“We ask the public for their continued support and cooperation by reporting suspicious-looking persons in their areas. The checkpoints will be intensified days prior to the Sona,” said Bacalzo.

The Sona, which Mr. Aquino will deliver at the Batasang Pambansa building in Quezon City, will be attended by, apart from members of Congress, ranking government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other VIPs.

Sonas are usually occasions for protest by militants and various opposition groups no matter which administration is in office.