Overall, the economy remains a pressing concern as the purchasing power of Filipinos is continuously eroded by inflation.
PROTESTERS from various anti-corruption groups march at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City on 21 September 2025 during the ‘Trillion Peso March,’ demanding accountability amid allegations of widespread corruption under the Marcos Jr. administration. Another one will be held later this month.
DAILY TRIBUNE IMAGES
Just two years before the end of his term, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered his fifth State of the Nation Address (SoNA) yesterday. The speech was expected to dwell on important issues such as economic recovery, corruption and social services, all while maintaining high expectations from the Filipino people.
I am unable to comment on his speech because the timing of its delivery conflicted with the deadline for this column. However, I will analyze what the public wants to see in terms of concrete actions and evaluate how the government has performed in light of the country’s challenges.
Independent surveys on public sentiment have been building over recent months, driven by pressing issues such as corruption, rising food prices and the urgent need for jobs creation.
The President’s admonishment regarding corruption, “Mahiya naman kayo sa kapwa ninyo Pilipino!” in last year’s address deeply touched those who were tired of graft and inefficiency.
People are eager for accountability and transparency, hoping to see tangible steps to address corruption, especially in critical areas like flood control.
We expect stronger action against corruption in public works, procurement, and government spending, and more transparency and prosecution of officials involved in the misuse of public funds.
Overall, the economy remains a pressing concern as the purchasing power of Filipinos is continuously eroded by inflation. Families are struggling with the rising costs of necessities, including medicine.
We expect an affordable cost of living and lower prices of rice and other food staples so people experiencing poverty can survive. Thus, we need stronger measures to reduce inflation and ease the burden on households.
The President’s ability to outline realistic measures to ensure food security will not only restore faith in his administration but also in alleviating the burdens faced by everyday Filipinos.
Jobs creation is equally urgent. Young graduates are entering the workforce in increasing numbers, and if the Marcos administration fails to generate adequate employment opportunities, disillusionment may set in.
We call for more assistance for farmers and fisherfolk to ensure food security. Food prices can be lowered through increased local production, better irrigation, post-harvest facilities and farm-to-market roads.
On disaster resilience, we expect better flood control and drainage systems, faster completion of infrastructure projects and stronger disaster preparedness, especially after recent typhoons and flooding.
We need more initiatives to enhance healthcare by improving public hospitals, making medicines more affordable and ensuring wider access to healthcare services, especially in provincial areas.
Good governance involves implementing faster government services, reducing bureaucracy and embracing digitalization to minimize red tape and combat corruption.
Filipinos are looking for a clear, comprehensive roadmap that will address these complex challenges and show how the administration plans to fulfill its promises in the remaining years of its term.
Yesterday’s SoNA should be a moment for President Marcos to rise to the occasion and demonstrate that he is attuned to the pulse of the nation. History will judge him not by the promises he makes but by the actions he takes in the months that follow.
