Marcos’ Fourth State of the Nation Address Delivers Strong Warnings
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 28, 2025, focused on the government’s achievements and future plans. However, the speech was marked by firm warnings that highlighted challenges, especially in infrastructure projects like flood control. These cautions indirectly pointed to areas where the administration fell short.
Arriving at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City via presidential helicopter at 3:29 p.m., Marcos began his address at 4:06 p.m. The speech lasted one hour and 11 minutes, making it his shortest Sona so far, equal in length to last year’s but shorter than his first two addresses. Throughout, Marcos targeted multiple sectors with stern admonitions.
Strong Words on Flood Control Corruption
One of the most memorable moments came when Marcos condemned corruption related to flood control efforts. He noted that poor-quality infrastructure worsened flooding during recent typhoons and heavy rains. “Just recently, I inspected the effects of the Habagat, and of Typhoons Crising, Dante, and Emong. I clearly saw that many flood control projects were failures and collapsed, and some were just imaginary,” he said.
He accused unnamed officials and contractors of pocketing public funds, saying, “Have some shame for the households that were swept away or submerged by the floods. Have some shame, especially for our children who will inherit the debts you made, while you just pocketed the money.”
Marcos directed the Department of Public Works and Highways to publicly list all flood control projects from the last three years, highlighting failed and unfinished works through regional committees. This segment of his speech earned the loudest and longest standing ovation from the audience, signaling widespread public concern.
Budget Alignment and Accountability Demands
The President warned Congress to align the 2026 national budget with his administration’s priorities. “I will return any proposed General Appropriations Bill that is not fully aligned with the National Expenditures Program,” Marcos declared, even if it means relying on a reenacted budget.
He also announced a government-wide audit and review of projects, pledging that those involved in corruption or negligence, including contractors, will face charges in the coming months. “The people need to know the whole truth, and there has to be accountability for corruption and damage,” he added.
Warnings Across Key Sectors
Marcos extended his warnings to several sectors. In agriculture, he condemned traders manipulating rice prices, branding such acts as “economic sabotage.” “I warn traders who try to manipulate the price of palay or rice or cheat the farmers. We will go after you because we consider what you’re doing as economic sabotage.”
He also tackled water supply concerns, instructing the Local Water Utilities Administration to resolve issues affecting six million consumers. “LUWA will ensure that the water service for millions of our fellow citizens will be fixed and that the prices will be made more affordable,” he said, vowing accountability for negligent providers.
In energy, Marcos cited brownouts in Siquijor caused by expired permits, faulty equipment, and poor procurement. He ordered relevant agencies to restore normal electricity service before year-end and promised investigations and refunds nationwide if necessary.
Further, he vowed justice for missing cockfighting enthusiasts, blaming criminal syndicates. “We will pursue and hold accountable the masterminds and those involved, whether civilians or officials. No matter how powerful, influential, or wealthy they are, they will not be above the law.”
Calls for Unity and Faster Government Action
Early in his speech, Marcos urged political unity following the 2025 elections. “Let us set aside our differences and agree on the three things that bind us together: our being Filipino, our love for the country, and our sworn duty to the people.”
He acknowledged public dissatisfaction reflected in midterm polls and admitted the government must improve its pace. “If we’re only talking about data, the economy is doing well—business confidence is up, inflation is down, and jobs have increased. But all of this is just window dressing, meaningless if our people are still struggling and burdened in their daily lives.”
Marcos promised that in the remaining three years of his term, the government would deliver more than it has pledged.
Agency Directives and Government Achievements
The President issued clear instructions to government agencies: The Land Transportation Office must clear license plate backlogs and release registrations promptly. The Departments of Public Works and Transportation must ensure road projects are durable, correctly built, and finished on time. He also encouraged Filipino parents to utilize free college and TESDA education programs.
Among the administration’s achievements, Marcos cited the provision of P20-per-kilo rice without lowering farmgate prices, nearly matching previous drug-related arrests despite signs of illegal drug resurgence, and activating three dormant Dalian train carriages. Expanded fare discounts and a new family pass for rail commuters were also announced.
He highlighted that since 2022, 2.5 million households gained electricity access, with nearly 200 power plants underway. The government aims to extend power to provinces like Quezon, Camarines Norte, Palawan, and others.
Investor Appeal and Praise for Overseas Filipinos
Marcos urged foreign investors to explore opportunities in the Philippines, praising the Filipino workforce’s readiness and adaptability. He cited improved inflation rates and a steady 4% unemployment rate.
He also expressed gratitude to overseas Filipino workers, saying, “Because of them, the skill, kindness, and heart of the Filipino are showcased in every corner of the world.”
Notable Omissions in the Address
Several critical issues were missing from the speech. Despite briefly mentioning cockfighting, Marcos did not address the rapid growth of online gambling or calls for a nationwide ban.
The President avoided discussing the Philippines’ territorial disputes with China in the West Philippine Sea. Instead, he reiterated the country’s pursuit of an “independent foreign policy” and its stance as “a friend to all and an enemy to none.”
He also made no reference to the International Criminal Court (ICC) or the country’s position regarding the tribunal, nor did he mention former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained at the ICC for alleged crimes.
Moreover, Marcos did not comment on the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, even after the Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional. The Vice President was absent from the address for the second year in a row, and Marcos did not acknowledge her during his speech.
His recent meeting with former US President Donald Trump regarding American tariffs on Philippine goods was also omitted. While a tariff reduction from 20% to 19% was reportedly secured, the agreement includes commitments to open Philippine markets and zero tariffs on certain US products.
Closing Remarks and Lighthearted Moment
In a lighter moment, Marcos jokingly declared Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III the country’s newest “champion” after Torre won a boxing match by default against acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, who did not appear.
Marcos ended his speech at 5:17 p.m., expressing gratitude and reaffirming his dedication. “We know in our hearts what is right and what is wrong. What is more important and what is more beneficial for ourselves, our families, and our nation,” he said.
“In the face of the great challenges the world throws at us today, your government stands behind you. Let us not be afraid. Let us not fold. Let us not lose hope.”
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