MANILA, Philippines — Preparations are in full swing for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, with the House of Representatives completing final rehearsals, security forces implementing heightened measures around the Batasang Pambansa Complex, and Malacañang hinting at significant policy announcements during the President’s annual address.
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III on Tuesday joined House officials in a final run-through and inspection of the plenary hall, declaring the House of Representatives ready to host the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., on Monday.
The Speaker said the House and the Office of the President had agreed to keep this year’s SONA “simple but dignified,” as befitting one of the country’s most important constitutional occasions.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin hinted that President Marcos’ speech would include “earthshaking” announcements, although he declined to provide specific details ahead of the address. Bersamin said the President continues to fine-tune his speech, which is expected to outline the administration’s priorities for the remaining two years of his term.
The Palace has indicated that the President’s SONA will focus on the administration’s accomplishments while presenting key initiatives aimed at addressing the country’s economic, social, and governance challenges. It is also expected to discuss ongoing infrastructure projects, economic reforms, food security, digital transformation, and disaster resilience.
Security has also been significantly strengthened ahead of the annual event. The Philippine National Police (PNP), in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, has deployed thousands of personnel to secure the Batasang Pambansa Complex and surrounding areas. Authorities are implementing traffic rerouting, intensified checkpoints, bomb detection operations, and crowd control measures as various groups prepare to hold demonstrations before and after the President’s speech.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) likewise placed its units on heightened alert to support the PNP in maintaining peace and order during the event. Military officials said they remain prepared to assist in ensuring public safety while respecting the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Government agencies have urged the public to cooperate with security personnel and traffic advisories to minimize disruptions during the SONA.
President Marcos’ fifth State of the Nation Address comes at a crucial point in his administration as he enters the final half of his six-year term. The annual address is expected to serve as both a report on the government’s accomplishments and a roadmap outlining its priorities for the remainder of his presidency.
