House all set for Marcos 3rd SONA

MANILA, Philippines — In anticipation of President Marcos’ third State of the Nation Address (SONA), the House of Representatives is all set to receive the country’s highest officials, along with other VIPs and dignitaries.

“The anticipation within the hallowed halls of this august chamber is palpable as we stand ready to hear and appreciate the accomplishments of the Marcos administration,” Speaker Martin Romualdez, who will be co-presiding the joint session of Congress with the Senate, said.

The administration stalwart and head of the 300-plus-strong legislative chamber added “preparations have been successful,” with the final inter-agency meeting among the Office of the President, Congress and other agencies held last July 15.

“It fills me with immense pride to recognize the significant role that the House has played in crafting legislation and policies that promote the welfare of all Filipinos. We are excited for the President’s SONA because we know he has many positive developments to share with the nation,” he said.

House secretary-general Reginald Velasco reiterated the Speaker’s statements and declared the readiness of the House to receive President Marcos, the senators led by Senate President Francis Escudero, Cabinet members and other guests and dignitaries.

He highlighted that the preparations include traffic rerouting plans and the timely distribution of official SONA invitations to former leaders, government officials, major stakeholders and other important guests, including members of the diplomatic community.

House sergeant-at-arms retired police major general Napoleon Taas confirmed that detailed security arrangements have been made to ensure a peaceful and orderly event, involving multiple security agencies.

Rep. Joey Salceda, chairman of the House ways and means committee, noted that “while challenges remain,” Marcos has many things up his sleeve to be proud about, like inflation which is down to 3.7 percent and well “within the target range.”

“Unemployment is at 4.1 percent – strong considering our high interest rates. Growth is at 5.7 percent – solid considering China’s slowdown and the generally hostile global conditions,” the second district of Albay congressman pointed out.

“In other words, the President can resolutely say that things are getting and are about to get better,” the lawmaker-economist stressed. “PBBM has also secured an agreement with India to supply rice and will be able to secure even more supply as India eases export restrictions.”

Meanwhile, Rep. Ron Salo of party-list Kabayan said Marcos’ third SONA “conveys renewed hope and optimism for the Filipino people, showcasing the administration’s gains under the flagship program Bagong Pilipinas.”

“The successful drive to bring crucial and basic services nearer and more accessible to the common Filipino showcases the Marcos administration’s genuine care for the welfare of our people,” the legislator added.