AFP ready to mobilize add'l troops for SONA security

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2023): AFP ready to mobilize add'l troops for SONA security (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP Joint Task Force-NCR)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is ready to deploy more troops to augment the security efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for Monday's second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"Likewise, the Chief of Staff, AFP (Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.) emphasize(s) making the SONA 2023 peaceful, orderly, and secure. Further instructed AFP units to deploy more troops if needed in coordination with the PNP," the AFP said in a statement late Sunday.

An initial 500 military personnel from the AFP's Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) were deployed to support the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) in its SONA security efforts.

"Troops deployment includes civil disturbance management (CDM) companies, ambu-medic teams, K-9 and EOD Teams from AFP units to augment the security operations of the NCRPO in Batasang Pambansa, Quezon City," the AFP added.

Brawner also directed JTF-NCR to closely coordinate with the PNP to improve the security preparations conducted since last week to preempt serious threats that may compromise peace and security during SONA.

"In addition, the AFP with the JTF-NCR is ready to support the LGUs (local government units) and other government agencies for 'Libreng Sakay' to ease the inconvenience of commuters who will be affected by the possible transport strike on Monday," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206233