The State of the Nation Address (SoNA) today, 28 July, marks a clear departure from years of extravagant staging, as the House of Representatives mandates a more subdued welcome.

The Senate, led by Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, chooses determination over display. “There will be no red carpet at the Senate… ensuring appropriate access and opportunities for the media to fulfill their role in covering the opening,” Escudero affirms, emphasizing that this year’s emphasis is purpose, not appearance.

At the House, the directive is equally firm. House Secretary General Reginald Velasco declared there “will be no staged ceremonies, fashion coverage, or photo opportunities in the red carpet area.”

With over 30 areas under water from recent typhoons and flooding, Rep. Martin Romualdez calls out the lavishness that often surrounds SoNA, saying it feels “out of touch” while communities remain submerged and struggling.

Not a gala

The embroidered ternos, custom barongs and designer walkthroughs are gone. In their absence, the core of governance steps forward. Akbayan Representative Percival Cendaña speaks a sentiment shared across the board: SoNA must serve as a “working session” rooted in empathy and action — not a “fashion gala.”

Lawmakers across party lines back the shift. Rep. Jude Acidre commends it as “leadership with a heart,” while Rep. Lorenz Defensor stresses the constitutional principle that public officials must live modestly.

Red carpet, rewritten

The shift in tone echoes the simplified SoNA of 2020, when former President Rodrigo Duterte delivered his address without flourish during the peak of the pandemic.

No red carpet. No fashion commentary. Back then, the absence of style coverage means the media skips over mentions of special guests — safety and sincerity take precedence.

Now, in 2025, that same essence reemerges.

Coverage today focuses not on who wears what, but who stands for what.

SoNA 2025 reshapes tradition, reminding the nation that leadership, not luxury, deserves center stage — and fashion, this time, graciously steps aside.