The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will deploy 20,229 police personnel across Metro Manila to secure the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on July 27.

In an interview on DZRH Stories Pinoy Documentaries, NCRPO spokesperson PMaj. Hazel Asilo said 300 police officers will be stationed at the Batasang Pambansa Complex, where the President will deliver his address.

The remaining personnel will be deployed across Metro Manila to conduct anti-criminality operations as part of the NCRPO's comprehensive security plan for the event.

Asilo also disclosed that four groups have so far applied for permits with their respective local government units (LGUs) to hold rallies during the SONA. She said the NCRPO is closely monitoring the status of these applications.

She clarified that the approval of rally permits rests solely with the concerned LGUs. The clarification came after Bagong Alyansang Makabayan claimed that its members were allegedly prevented from gathering at St. Peter Parish in Quezon City.

As of now, Asilo said no specific areas have yet been designated for SONA-related protest activities.

The NCRPO has yet to decide whether to place Metro Manila under full alert status ahead of the SONA, noting that the security situation is still being assessed.

She added that contingency measures are also in place to respond to any emergencies or natural disasters that may occur during the event.