By: Sophia Pacheco
Photo courtesy: Screenshot from RTVM Malacañang’s live shots
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. delivered his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on Monday, July 28, highlighting the urgency of accelerating reforms and improving public services.
In his opening remarks, Marcos acknowledged the growing public dissatisfaction over key services, noting that the people's frustrations reflect a call for the government to ‘do better and move faster’.
Economic and Agricultural Measures
President Marcos emphasized that job creation and livelihood support remains the most effective shield against poverty and hunger.
He noted that employment opportunities are steadily increasing, committing that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Department of Tourism (DOT) will work to address the remaining 4% unemployment rate.
He also announced continued support for small entrepreneurs through low-interest loans and free training programs, targeting 2.5 million poor families.
Marcos also called on entrepreneurs to invest in the country, citing government efforts to expand industries in manufacturing, automotive, electronics, biotechnology, agriculture, and energy.
“My single resounding message to the international business community is this: The Philippines is ready. Invest in the Filipino.” he stated.
In agriculture, ?113 billion was allocated to strengthen the Kadiwa program and local food production. This includes enhancing pork supply through biosecure local facilities and the nationwide planting of at least 15 million high-quality coconut seedlings initiatives.
Agrarian reform beneficiaries will also receive CLOAs and e-titles, affirming full ownership without debt, while agricultural scholarships will be made available to youth.
Energy, Water, and Utilities
Marcos admitted that electricity access remains a challenge, with over a million households still without power.
He vowed to build 200 new energy plants over the next three years and expand the Solar Power Home System to an additional one million homes. The Department of Energy will fast-track the net metering program and improve consumer protection, including issuing refunds if necessary.
On water supply, Marcos said over 6 million consumers still face irregular water access. The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) was ordered to hold negligent water districts and private partners accountable.
Education and Health
Marcos said that improving the education system remains at the forefront of the administration’s priorities.
“Puspusan nating inaayos at pinapaganda ang ating sistema ng edukasyon. Sa lahat ng mga pinahahalagahan ng administrasyon, ito pa rin ang nasa rurok.” he said.
The administration launched the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program for academic recovery and allotted one billion to build 300 child development centers. The Department of Health (DOH) will also enhance access to vaccinations and healthcare through initiatives like the YAKAP Caravan.
“At ang pinaka-priority ay ‘yung mga nangangailangan na pook na malalayo. At pauna lamang ‘yan. Unti-unti nating tutugunan ang matinding kakulangan sa daycare center na nakabinbin mula pa noong 1990.” he stated.
Marcos cited the construction of 22,000 new classrooms, with plans to build 40,000 more. He promised digital resources and additional compensation for teachers, along with strengthened technical-vocational tracks for senior high students.
Furthermore, he reported that healthcare programs will focus on nutrition, preventive care, and financial aid for serious illnesses. The government plans to integrate the Medical Assistance Program into the eGov app for faster access.
PhilHealth will also continue covering major health conditions including cancer, dialysis, and therapy for persons with disabilities.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Marcos also reported ongoing developments in infrastructure through the “Build Better More” program, covering roads, bridges, public transportation, and housing projects.
He noted that the previously unused Dalian trains have started operating, and construction of the 32-kilometer Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge is expected to begin within the year.
On digital infrastructure, the initial phases of the National Fiber Backbone project have been completed. Free public Wi-Fi coverage is being expanded, and more than one million SIM cards with data have been distributed to public schools, including those in remote areas.
The administration is also pushing for wider use of the eGov app, which now offers various government services such as license renewals, social service applications, and access to official documents.
Peace, Order, and Foreign Policy
Marcos also underlined his administration’s commitment to peace and public safety, citing efforts to resolve the disappearance of ‘sabungeros’ and expanded campaigns against illegal drugs, with ?83 billion worth of narcotics confiscated to date.
“Nagtutulungan ang buong pamahalaan para lutasin ang mga kaso ng mga nawawala dahil sa walang pakundangang kagagawan ng mga sindikato.” he stated.
In foreign policy, Marcos reaffirmed the country’s neutral position, saying that the ‘Philippines is a friend to all, an enemy to none’. He also announced that the country will host the ASEAN Summit in 2026.
Disaster Response and Climate Action
Marcos criticized inferior flood control projects and called for accountability, requiring an audit and publishing of failed projects over the previous three years. He also advocated for the development of advanced evacuation facilities and discouraged the use of schools for disaster response.
“Kaya sa mga nakikipagsabwatan upang kunin ang pondo ng bayan at nakawin ang kinabukasan ng ating mga mamamayan, mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino!” he declared.
He urged public cooperation in climate adaptation efforts, including waste management and active disaster preparedness, and emphasized the importance of discipline and continuous improvement.
Marcos concluded his address with a call for unity and perseverance, as his administration enters the second half of its term.