No red carpet at SoNA

The House of Representatives will do away with the traditional glitz and glam in this year’s State of the Nation Address (SoNA) in deference to the people and communities affected by the three consecutive tropical cyclones that battered the nation in barely a week, causing widespread severe flooding across the country.

In a memorandum issued on Friday, House Secretary Reginald Velasco encouraged members of the House to “avoid ostentatious displays and exercise discretion in their wardrobe choices” in the SoNA to show “solidarity” with the Filipino people who are reeling from the devastating effects of severe tropical storm “Crising,” tropical storm “Dante” and typhoon “Emong,” coupled by the southwest monsoon.

No red carpet, on which guests showcased their high-end couture and designer pieces, will be rolled out on Monday. The adjustment will also scrap staged ceremonies, fashion coverage, and photo setups.

The House, however, advised guests to wear formal attire such as the traditional barong Tagalog or Filipiniana dresses in “keeping with the solemn tone of the occasion.”

Media interviews of members of Congress — which were customarily held on the red carpet — are still encouraged but only in designated areas.

“These adjustments reflect our solidarity with the affected communities and our commitment to uphold the dignity of this national gathering,” the memorandum read.

President Marcos’ fourth SoNA on Monday marks his midterm in office and will take place hours after the House and the Senate formally open their session in the 20th Congress.

Members of the House agreed with the changes in the protocols, particularly dropping the traditional fashion and ceremonial walk-ins in consideration of the plight of the victims of the recent weather disturbances.

The memorandum simplifying the annual ceremonial event followed a recommendation by former speaker Martin Romualdez, who is presumed to retain the post, and some senators. The Senate is expected to implement the same protocol.

Members of Congress stressed that substance, focusing on and addressing pressing national issues, including disaster risk mitigation, should be given more importance during the SoNA than the grandiosity of those in attendance.

This year’s SoNA is expected to match last year’s record-breaking attendance, with more than 1,500 guests comprising top-level government officials, including former leaders, diplomats, members of Congress, and the judiciary.