President Marcos’ State of the Nation Address Tackles Urgent National Concerns
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) lasted 1 hour and 11 minutes, covering the government’s efforts to address Filipinos’ urgent national concerns. He spoke extensively about poverty alleviation, corruption, and economic challenges facing the country.
On Monday, July 28, Marcos emphasized, “ibubuhos natin ang lahat-lahat,” underscoring his administration’s commitment to work all out in the last three years to improve the lives of all Filipinos. “Huwag nating hayaang malihis ang ating pagtuon at pagtahak sa landas ng kaunlaran dahil nasa abot-tanaw na natin ito,” he added, urging unity and focus on development.
War on Corruption and Economic Realities
As he closed his address at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, Marcos declared a firm war on corruption, condemning those involved in flawed flood-control projects that burden millions. “Mahiya naman kayo,” he said, promising that the government will file charges against all responsible parties, including accomplices and contractors, in the coming months.
Despite the focus on urgent national concerns, the president did not mention wage hikes, a pressing issue for many Filipinos that the 19th Congress failed to pass last month. Marcos acknowledged the improving economy and easing inflation but stressed, “[ito ay] walang saysay kung ang ating mga kababayan naman ay hirap pa rin at nabibigatan sa kanilang buhay.”
Supporting Agriculture and Local Production
To help ease the burden, the government allocated P113 billion to enhance the Department of Agriculture’s programs, including the rollout of Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets and support centers in local governments. Marcos highlighted efforts to boost local production through farm-to-market roads, irrigation expansion, and assistance to farmers and fisherfolk.
He also issued a stern warning to rice traders engaged in price manipulation, signaling the administration’s determination to stabilize food prices.
Combating Poverty and Strengthening Social Programs
Marcos reiterated the government’s nonstop fight against poverty and commitment to health care needs. He cited the ongoing Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), which has lifted 1.5 million households out of poverty in the last three years. He urged local governments to identify homeless families for inclusion and proposed amending the 4Ps law to enhance the program.
The president also mentioned free training and capital support for the poor to start businesses and generate income. Government agencies will collaborate to find employment for the remaining 4 percent of jobless Filipinos.
The promise to pursue justice against corruption earned Marcos a standing ovation in the Batasang Pambansa. He condemned the rampant kickbacks and illicit schemes in government projects, vowing investigations and legal actions.
Law Enforcement and Public Safety
Marcos highlighted a declining crime rate, improved police presence, and faster response times, now expected within five minutes. The government has confiscated illegal drugs worth P83 billion, demonstrating intensified efforts against crime.
He also addressed the disappearance of sabungeros, promising to hold all involved accountable, including civilians and officials. The government’s Walang Gutom Program aims to reach 600,000 households this year, expanding to 750,000 by 2027. Feeding initiatives by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Department of Education will continue, supported by a P1 billion budget next year.
Peace, Security, and National Defense
Marcos stressed that peace is a vital foundation for the new Philippines. Both the police and military forces are being modernized with new equipment to strengthen security. The Balik-Loob Program supports former rebels now contributing to peace efforts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The president noted that his promise to provide rice at P20 per kilo was fulfilled without harming farmers’ incomes. Since his administration began, aid has reached 8.5 million farmers and fisherfolk, alongside infrastructure projects like farm-to-market roads and irrigation development.
Capital assistance continues to be provided at low interest rates and without collateral to help 2.5 million poor households start businesses.
International Relations and Sovereignty Defense
Despite ongoing threats to peace and sovereignty, the Philippines has boosted its preparedness and defense capabilities while maintaining patience. Marcos expressed confidence thanks to stronger alliances, stating, “Subalit ngayon, mas mataas pa ang ating kumpiyansa dahil mas marami na tayong mga kasangga.”
He recalled the successful rescue of Filipinos held by the Houthis after over 400 days through government coordination with the Sultanate of Oman. Additionally, overseas Filipino workers in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and other countries have received pardons during the past three years.
While Marcos declared there are no longer guerilla fronts in the country and vowed to prevent their reestablishment, he did not elaborate on the nation’s readiness to counter terrorism.
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