MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said his upcoming fifth State of the Nation Address will present the government’s assessment of the past year’s challenges and the measures taken to shield Filipinos from the effects of global uncertainties.
During an interview in Mabalacat City, Pampanga on Friday, Marcos described the SONA as a yearly accountability report in which the President informs the public about developments since the previous address.
He said this year’s speech will discuss the country’s experience in dealing with external factors that affected the economy and national conditions, as well as the programs implemented to ease their impact on ordinary Filipinos.
The President maintained that the government’s response has been effective, saying policy adjustments and assistance initiatives have helped families, especially those in vulnerable sectors, withstand difficult circumstances.
Marcos added that these interventions have contributed to gradually stabilizing the situation despite continuing international challenges.
He also revealed that work on his speech remains ongoing, explaining that revisions continue until just before the actual delivery to ensure every important issue is covered and presented clearly.
According to Marcos, the draft is already in its final stages, with only minor refinements being made to improve its flow and maintain an appropriate length.
Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fifth SONA before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City on July 27. The Palace earlier said the event would be held in a simple but dignified manner.
When asked if he would address allegations of corruption within the government during the speech, the President gave a brief response, saying, “Abangan ang susunod na kabanata,” hinting that the issue may be discussed at a later time.
elamigo/xf
