THE Tagum City choir will sing the Philippine National Anthem in the upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona) of President Rodrigo Duterte on July 23.
This was announced by House Secretary General Cesar Strait Pareja during a press conference at the House of Representatives on Thursday, July 12.
Pareja said the suggestion to have the Tagum choir sing the national anthem came from House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez who is from Tagum.
"It was a suggestion and we discussed and it's okay so they were invited," he said.
"It was a suggestion from the Speaker to depart from the usual, Maybe to showcase the talent from his district," he added.
During the press conference, Pareja said that Congress is now ready for the Sona.
"We are now ready for the most anticipated annual event of the Congress, the Sona and the opening of the third regular session," he said.
According to retired Lt. Gen. Roland Detabali, there will be a lockdown at the House of Representatives three days before the Sona just like last year.
This means that only those who have business inside the premises will be allowed to enter.
Detabali said more agencies will contribute to this year's Sona in preparation for any emergencies.
"We have more agencies, forces and equipment that can deal with any emergencies," said Detabali.
"Nandun pa rin mga x-ray machines, K9 not only coming from Congress but also from different agencies," he added.
Detabali said that although they do not see incidents related to terrorism and sabotage occurring, they are prepared should any of these happen.
Detabali said they have also recommended to the Presidential escort units to advise the President not to leave the Batasang Pambansa.
Last year, Duterte left the premises and faced the protesters minutes after he finished delivering his speech.
On why they advised the Chief executive to remain inside the Batasan he said: "Baka natuto na sila kasi last year biglaan yun e. We were not prepared but this year baka maisip nila na pwedeng gawin ni Presidente, kahit madisgrasya siguro yung ibang kasama nila e they can do it."
Detabali said Duterte might invite the leftist leaders inside the Batasan. (SunStar Philippines)