WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to deliver his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at 4 pm on Monday, July 25, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, the first in his six-year term in office.
The younger Marcos is poised to bare his top plans for a country still reeling from the long-lasting impacts of a pandemic that began two years ago.
Bookmark and refresh this page for updates, videos, fact checks, and analyses as Marcos delivers his first SONA.
Watch Rappler’s coverage in the YouTube video below:
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LATEST UPDATES
Marcos lays out plans for OFWs
“We shall automate the verification of contracts and issue secure overseas employment certifications that you can keep on your smartphone. I call on the Department of Migrant Workers and the DICT to make this a top priority.”
“Tinatawagan ko rin ang Department of Foreign Affairs na makipagtulungan sa Department of Migrant Workers na tiyaking ang lahat ng mga diplomatic post ay tutulong na agarang maibalik sa trabaho ang mga ating overseas Filipino workers na nawalan ng hanapbuhay nitong nakalipas na ilang taon.”
Marcos eyes new power plants, renewable energy
Marcos eyes new power plants, renewable energy.
— Ralf Rivas (@RalfRivas) July 25, 2022
He also looks into investment incentives for natural gas.
Marcos also wants to reexamine Philippines' nuclear energy policy. Looks into PPPs for funding. @rapplerdotcom
Marcos calls for ‘disaster-proof planning’
“Studies show that already many areas in the Philippines are at high risk from the rise in sea levels brought about by the increase in global temperature. We must adapt to this phenomenon with disaster-proof planning for our communities.”
Marcos pushes for new power plants
“At present, our demand for energy far exceeds our reliable supply…. We must look at every possible option that would be appropriate for the Philippine situation.”
“We must build new power plants.”
“We must take advantage of all the best technology that is now available, especially in the areas of renewable energy.”
Marcos promises to expand Rodrigo Duterte’s infrastructure projects
Marcos says he will build on infrastructure projects started by former president Duterte, he promised to "keep the momentum." He vows not to suspend ongoing infra projects of Duterte.
— Ralf Rivas (@RalfRivas) July 25, 2022
He also discusses railway projects and looks into PPP. https://t.co/v4tIQ4mK0C
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his first SONA speaks about not only continuing, but expanding his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte's infrastructure push. @rapplerdotcom
— Michelle Abad (@michelleabad_) July 25, 2022
Related story on infrastructure during Duterte's time: https://t.co/XUqGOs3PwU
Marcos: Duterte infrastructure program must be expanded
“The backbone of an economy is its infrastructure. The infrastructure program of the Duterte administration must not only continue but wherever possible, be expanded.”
“The planned expansion of infrastructure projects would be possible if we continue to encourage the participation of the private sector.”
“Railways offer great potential…. We can build upon already existing lines by modernizing these old railway systems.”
“We will also continue to improve our roads and transportation systems in key cities.”
“My order to the Department of Transportation or DOTr is really very simple: full speed ahead.”
Marcos: Poor quality of educational materials must end
“As for the horror stories that we have heard about the poor quality of educational materials and supplies that are being given to our schools: this must end. Our children must always be equipped with the best that we can provide. Ang edukasyon ay ang tangi nating pamana sa ating mga anak.”
“I am not talking about history or what is being taught. I am talking about materials that are necessary for effective teaching in this day and age. Children now need connectivity…educational tools.”
“We must do better in international rankings.”
“The question of our medium of instruction must be continuously reexamined.”
Marcos: Time for full face-to-face classes
“In the education sector, I believe it is time for our children to return to full face-to-face classes once again.”
“We must ensure that our classrooms are safe for students, for teachers, and the entire academic community.”
“We continue to encourage everyone to get your booster shots in preparation for the resumption of face-to-face classes.”
‘Marcos is saying all the right things so far’
Marcos announces consultations on and review of the division of powers and responsibilities between the national government and the local government units. #SONA2022 #LocalGov #LocalGovPH
— Miss Go (@miriamgracego) July 25, 2022