VP Sara Duterte Won’t Attend Marcos’ State of the Nation Address
Vice President Sara Duterte announced that she does not plan to attend President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA). She expressed her expectation of “nothing substantial” coming from the speech, prompting her decision to skip the event once again.
This marks the second consecutive year that Duterte will be absent from the SONA. She first missed the address earlier in 2024 and has since made it clear that her priorities lie elsewhere.
Reasons Behind Duterte’s Absence
Duterte shared her views during a chance interview at a rally in Melbourne, Australia, stating, “I do not intend to attend the State of the Nation address of President Marcos since I don’t think he will be providing anything substantial about our country.” She emphasized that her time would be better spent engaging with the Filipino community abroad.
“It would be best to spend that time with the Filipino community discussing what we can do for the country and to improve the country,” she added, highlighting her focus on grassroots efforts rather than official ceremonies.
Official Confirmation and Historical Context
House of Representatives Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed that Duterte will once again skip the President’s SONA. This aligned with Duterte’s own statements, underscoring her consistent stance.
Last year, Duterte even appointed herself as a “designated survivor,” a role in government that ensures continuity of leadership in case of a catastrophic event during the SONA. Her absence this year continues to signal her critical view of the administration’s current direction.
Looking Ahead
As the nation anticipates Marcos’ fourth SONA, Duterte’s choice to prioritize direct interaction with Filipinos abroad reflects her unique approach to public service. While the President prepares his address, the Vice President focuses on community engagement and tangible support for citizens.
This development adds another layer to the political landscape, suggesting a complex dynamic between the country’s top leaders as they navigate their roles.
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