Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez expressed confidence that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27, will proceed peacefully.

The statement comes despite the initial discovery of two improvised explosive devices in two separate locations: one close to the Senate, and the second, near the Department of Justice (DOJ) compound, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa.

During his inspection in Quezon City, the police chief perceived that, so far, the day of Marcos’ SONA has been running smoothly, even as it coincided with Iglesia NI Cristo (INC) activities in commemoration of their founding anniversary.

Nonetheless, the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal unit is investigating the possibility that the two explosives are connected.

Nartatez, however, believes that these were planted merely to scare the public on the day of the SONA. He said attempts to spark disorder and disruption will not succeed.

“‘Yung kasamaan can breach in peace and order, lalong-lalo na, (if it) points to terrorism—kailanman ay hindi magwawagi,” he told reporters.

At least 51 people have been arrested so far, primarily for vandalism.

“They were accosted because of violations of ordinances and special laws, particularly R.A. 9003, B.P. 880, and local ordinances. Lalo na ‘yung magtatakip ng mukha? Bawal ‘yung magtatakip ng mukha, lalo na ‘yung nangyari noong September last year,” he said, recalling the riot that had broken out during the first Trillion Peso March on September 21.