Philippines – Security Ahead of Presidential Address

Thousands are expected to participate in anti-government protests ahead of and during President Benigno Aquino III’s State of the Nation Address in Manila on July 28. The National Capital Region Police Office is deploying approximately 10,000 officers to maintain order during the event. Police will likely announce street closures and traffic diversions, particularly along Commonwealth Avenue and Batasan Road, which leads to the Batasan Pambansa complex, on July 28. Protests could also occur in other urban centers, such as Angeles City, Bacolod, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Metro Cebu, Cotabato City, Davao, General Santos City, Iloilo, and Legazpi City. Serious unrest is unlikely, but small-scale skirmishes are possible. if demonstrators disobey police orders and try to rally in prohibited areas.