Philippines: Activists plan to protest ahead of State of the Nation Address in Metro Manila, Philippines, July 23-26 /update 1

Event

President Rodrigo Duterte will deliver his sixth State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City, Metro Manila, July 26. Authorities will increase security throughout the National Capital Region, especially Quezon City, though this year's event will be significantly smaller than in past years due to COVID-19 restrictions. Police will almost certainly establish security cordons near the complex; street closures, roadblocks, and traffic diversions are likely, particularly along Commonwealth Avenue and Batasan Road, which lead to the complex.

Various civic groups and labor unions have called for nationwide protests to denounce the government. The largest protests will likely occur in Metro Manila, where hundreds to thousands may participate in any gathering. Various organizers have announced the following protest locations:

July 23

• Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City 10:00-11:00

• Bantayog ng mga Bayani, Quezon City, 15:00-20:00

July 24

• 11th World Scout Jamboree Memorial Rotonda, Quezon City 06:00; activists will cycle to the Commission on Human Rights.

July 26

• Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Quezon City, 09:00

• Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City, 09:00; protesters will march to Batasang Pambansa Complex from 11:30

• Liwasang Diokno, Quezon City, 11:00-13:00

• Commission on Human Rights, Quezon City, 13:00-14:30

Activists may hold additional protests in the days leading up to the SONA address. Possible protest sites include Commonwealth Avenue, Mendiola, People Power Monument, Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon Hall at the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus, and Welcome Rotonda. Elsewhere in the Philippines, demonstrators may rally in urban centers near government offices, public squares, and parks. Sizeable gatherings could also occur in Cebu City and other major cities. Duterte's supporters may organize counterrallies.

Authorities will almost certainly bolster security during any action. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely during gatherings, especially if demonstrators block roads near the protest locations. Clashes could occur if police forcibly disperse any rally or if protesters attempt to break through security barriers. Arrests may occur if security forces consider any demonstrator to violate COVID-19 restrictions.

Context

Civic groups and activists continue to criticize Duterte's administration and its policies, especially the anti-terror law that allegedly curtails freedom of speech, and COVID-19 restrictions. Groups have also been calling for economic reforms and an end to extrajudicial killings, among other demands.

Advice

Avoid rally sites and areas around the Batasang Pambansa Complex July 26. Allow additional driving time due to possible traffic disruptions and security checkpoints, especially in Quezon City. Seek updated information on rally sites and associated disruptions, as organizers may not announce rallies in advance. Heed all instructions from security personnel. Confirm business appointments July 26.