House Cancels Red Carpet Ceremonies for Sona Solidarity with Typhoon Victims
MANILA, Philippines — In a move to express empathy and unity, the House of Representatives has canceled red carpet ceremonies, fashion coverage, and photo opportunities for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 28. This decision aims to show solidarity with communities devastated by recent typhoons.
A memorandum issued by House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco detailed the changes for this year’s opening of the 20th Congress and the Sona at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. The red carpet will now serve strictly for ingress and official protocol, with no staged ceremonies or elaborate photo setups allowed.
Despite these restrictions, members of Congress remain available for media interviews. “These adjustments reflect our solidarity with affected communities and our commitment to uphold the dignity of this national gathering,” the memorandum emphasized.
Dress Code and Event Tone Adjusted for Respect
Attendees are still required to wear formal attire, with a strong encouragement to don traditional Filipino clothing such as the barong or Filipiniana. However, lawmakers are urged to avoid flashy or ostentatious displays, exercising discretion in their wardrobe choices.
“Members are respectfully urged to avoid ostentatious displays and exercise discretion in their wardrobe choices,” the memorandum added, reinforcing the event’s somber tone in light of recent calamities.
Context Behind the Changes
This year’s toned-down Sona comes after calls from several lawmakers who sought to respect the hardships faced by Filipinos affected by flooding and typhoons intensified by the southwest monsoon. Given the widespread impact of recent weather calamities, the House leadership opted for simplicity to honor the affected communities.
Local leaders noted that this gesture also reflects a broader commitment to national unity during trying times. The House of Representatives, under the guidance of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, wrapped up the second regular session of the 19th Congress with this more reserved approach to the Sona.
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