SONA goes naked

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 communities and families 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 released 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 still reeling from the devastating effects of Severe Tropical Storm Crising, Tropical Storm Dante, and Typhoon Emong, coupled by southwest monsoon. 

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

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

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

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

President Marcos Jr.’s fourth SONA on Monday marks his mid-term in office and will take place hours after the House and the Senate formally open session for the 20th Congress.

Members of the House agreed with the changes in the protocols, particularly dropping traditional fashion and ceremonial walk-ins in consideration of the plight of the communities and victims severely affected by 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 other senators. The Senate is also expected to implement the same protocol.

Members of Congress argued 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 in Philippine history, with more than 1,500 guests comprising top-level government officials, including former leaders, diplomats, members of Congress, and the judiciary, among others.

Vice President Sara Duterte had already confirmed that she would skip—for the second year in a row—Marcos’ fourth SONA, although the House said it would not rule out the possibility of her attending. A  designated seat at the VIP gallery and a holding room will still be prepared for the VP and her entourage.