Preparations underway for Marcos’ fourth SONA

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has begun preparations for his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), set to take place on 28 July, Malacañang confirmed Tuesday.

According to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, the President is aiming to deliver a comprehensive and improved report on his administration’s achievements and ongoing projects. However, she did not disclose further details about the speech’s content or themes.

“Ang sabi po sa akin hanggang ngayon pa ay nagpi-prepare pa rin po at kailangan po na maging mas maganda ang pag-uulat sa taumbayan patungkol sa kaniyang mga naging proyekto at mga achievements and accomplishments (I was told that even until now, preparations are still ongoing, and it is necessary to present a better report to the public regarding his projects, achievements, and accomplishments),” Castro told reporters.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is ramping up security measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the event.

PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III said that their preparations may be adjusted based on intelligence reports, especially in light of the ongoing impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.

The Vice President is expected to skip this year’s SONA, according to House Secretary General Reginald Velasco. He, however, said that a reserved seat and a designated holding room will be available for the Vice President should she decide to attend.

Velasco added that over 200 guests have already confirmed their attendance.

This year’s address will unfold against a backdrop of political tension, with Marcos expected to highlight key achievements while navigating complex dynamics within the administration.