By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to place the administration’s anti-corruption campaign, economic agenda, West Philippine Sea policy, and social protection programs at the center of his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday as he reports on the government’s accomplishments and lays out priorities for the remainder of his term.
Speaking to reporters in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, Marcos said his speech was already “more than 90 percent” complete but could still undergo revisions to reflect the latest developments facing the country.
The President said his address would explain how the government has been steering the nation through a challenging period marked by global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and domestic concerns.
Among the key issues expected to dominate the SONA is the administration’s crackdown on corruption, particularly in the implementation of flood control projects.
Marcos has repeatedly vowed to hold accountable government officials and contractors found responsible for irregularities in infrastructure projects, insisting that public funds must translate into effective flood mitigation measures.
His anti-corruption campaign has included the launch of the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” platform and the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure to review questionable government projects.
The President is also expected to highlight the country’s economic gains following its attainment of upper middle-income status while outlining measures to sustain growth, attract investments, create jobs, and shield the economy from global uncertainties.
Recent overseas trips by Marcos have focused on encouraging foreign investments and strengthening key industries to support long-term economic development.
Another major focus of the address is expected to be the administration’s continued assertion of Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.
The issue gained renewed urgency after a Philippine Navy sailor was injured during a confrontation with members of the China Coast Guard near Ayungin Shoal on July 20.
Following the incident, Marcos summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to Malacañang to formally protest the assault and express his intention to “reset” bilateral relations while reaffirming the country’s commitment to defending its maritime rights under international law.
The President is expected to provide updates on the government’s diplomatic, legal, and security initiatives aimed at protecting Filipino fishermen and safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
Marcos is likewise expected to report on programs designed to protect low-income families, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable sectors from the impact of rising fuel prices and global economic disruptions.
Among the measures likely to be highlighted is Executive Order No. 110, which declared a state of national energy emergency and established the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) framework to cushion the effects of the Middle East conflict on the Philippine economy.
The President is also expected to present updates on government assistance programs, the number of beneficiaries served, and reforms intended to improve the delivery of social services.
As Marcos delivers his penultimate SONA before Congress, Filipinos are expected to closely watch not only the administration’s accomplishments but also its roadmap for addressing corruption, economic challenges, national security, and the country’s most pressing concerns in the years ahead.
ia/xf
