Newsbreak Chats: Duterte’s SONA 2020 and beyond

Bookmark this page to catch the discussion on Thursday 4 pm, July 30!

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, July 27, delivered his 5th State of the Nation Address amid the raging coronavirus pandemic in the Philippines.

Duterte didn’t put forward a concrete plan on how to address the coronavirus situation in the country, as the cases continue to rise. (READ: Duterte’s 2020 SONA: Pandemic plan overtaken by obsession with ‘oligarchs’)

The SONA was a reflection of the Duterte administration’s priorities, with government focusing on other matters instead of spending more time and resources to control the virus. The President hit ABS-CBN, the Lopezes, and the so-called oligarchs. He listed legislation he wanted to push, including the death penalty by lethal injection. (READ: Pandemic unravels Duterte’s 2016 promise of decisive leadership)

On Thursday, July 30, the Newsbreak team will discuss the implications of these and other related issues such as the shrinking democratic space, dissent, and power in the hands of leaders.

The discussion with multimedia reporters Pia Ranada, Mara Cepeda, Aika Rey, and news editor Miriam Grace Go will be moderated by investigative desk head Chay Hofileña.

Join us on Thursday afternoon for the discussion. Let us know in the comments below or tag us on Twitter (@newsbreakph) if you have any questions! – Rappler.com