QC suspends “Brigada Eskwela” classes on SONA day

MANILA, Philippines – The local government unit (LGU) of Quezon City has announced the suspension of classes and “Brigada Eskwela” activities in public schools on Monday.

The Quezon City government announced on Sunday that classes would be suspended to prevent people from getting stuck in expected traffic congestion as certain roads will be closed for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“The aim is to encourage everyone to listen to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) and prevent the public from being stuck in traffic jams,” the announcement said.

The Quezon City government also announced an alcohol ban for Monday, lasting from 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Weapons ban

The Philippine National Police (PNP) began enforcing a gun ban in Metro Manila on Saturday in preparation for the SONA. The gun ban will end on Tuesday, July 23.

During this period, all permits to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) in the National Capital Region are suspended. Only members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other law enforcement agencies on duty and in uniform are permitted to carry firearms.

Road closures

Starting Monday at 8:00 a.m., the Batasan-IBP road will be closed to motorists.

In a traffic alert, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that a zip lane will be set up on the southern stretches of Commonwealth Avenue to accommodate officials and guests heading to the Batasang Pambansa Complex.

The MMDA advised motorists to use the following alternate routes to avoid the expected heavy traffic on Commonwealth Avenue and around the Batasang Pambansa Complex.