MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. The address began at 4:06 p.m. and lasted for 1 hour and 11 minutes.
In his speech, Marcos outlined his administration’s accomplishments and priorities as the country’s 17th Chief Executive.
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He emphasized efforts to uplift the lives of Filipinos, improve the economy, ensure social services, and promote good governance.
Below is a summary of the key highlights from his address, which can serve as a guide for writing a reaction paper.
Governance and Public Service
Marcos opened with a congratulatory message to elected officials from the 2025 senatorial and local elections and called for national unity: "Isantabi na natin ang ating pagkakaiba."
He acknowledged public disappointment in government services, admitting: "Kailangan pa natin mas lalong galingan, kailangan mas lalo pa nating bilisan."
The President committed to creating more jobs, supporting small businesses, and lifting 2.5 million poor Filipinos through micro-enterprise programs.
Economic and Agricultural Development
Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s goal to offer rice at ₱20 per kilo, stating that this is now viable without harming farmers. The program will be rolled out nationwide through Kadiwa centers. He warned traders against price manipulation and economic sabotage.
He called on Congress to amend the Coconut Farmers Industry and Trust Fund Act and emphasized continued assistance to the agriculture sector. He cited that 8.5 million farmers and fisherfolk have already benefited from government support.
Energy and Infrastructure
Energy remains a pressing issue, with three million households still lacking access to electricity. Marcos announced that 200 power plants are slated for completion, and a Net Metering Program will be launched to support energy sustainability.
On water access, he said over six million consumers are affected. He ordered the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to improve services and hold negligent officials accountable.
Infrastructure development was another key point, with projects including:
- 40,000 new classrooms
- Expanded internet connectivity (especially in schools)
- Rehabilitation of Guadalupe Bridge with detour construction first to avoid closure
- Use of long-idled Dalian trains in the MRT
- Return of the iconic “Love Bus,” now free for commuters
- Supervision of major transport projects from Quezon to Bicol
Education and Health
Investing in human capital remains a priority:
- Additional 60,000 teaching positions were created
- Public school teachers will receive overload and overtime pay
- Presidential merit scholarships for students with high honors
- Mental health support and more guidance counselors
- Expanded vaccination programs and more daycare centers
- Increased beneficiaries of the feeding program
Social Services and Digitalization
Marcos urged Congress to amend the 4Ps law to ensure sufficient support duration for the poor. He also announced expanded PhilHealth coverage, including full cost for kidney transplants and continued implementation of zero-balance billing in DOH hospitals.
The President promoted the eGov app, which consolidates over 40 government services, and ordered the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to clear backlogs in license plate issuance within the promised three-day window.
Law Enforcement and Sovereignty
In discussing peace and order, Marcos highlighted:
- The near-complete dismantling of armed insurgencies
- Ongoing operations against drug dealers, with over 677 government personnel identified in the drug trade
- Vows to go after those responsible for the disappearance of “sabungeros”
He emphasized defending national sovereignty with increased vigilance and preparedness: "Mas maigting ngayon ang ating paghahanda, pagmamatyag, at pagtatanggol sa ating sarili."
Disaster Resilience and Environmental Management
Marcos stated that schools should no longer be used as evacuation centers and admitted shortcomings in flood control projects. He condemned corruption in infrastructure, earning a standing ovation when he said: “Mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino.”
He ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to submit and publish a list of all flood control projects and to conduct a full performance audit.
Culture, Sports, and National Pride
To promote health and address obesity, Marcos proposed a nationwide "Car-Free Sunday" and support for school sports programs. He praised Filipino athletes who competed internationally.
He specifically recognized PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre as a “champion,” even referencing Torre's much-publicized but unmaterialized boxing match with Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte.
Closing Message
Marcos ended on a hopeful note, reinforcing Filipino resilience:
"Sa mga matitinding hamon, nasa likod n’yo ang pamahalaan. Huwag tayo matakot, huwag tayo titiklop, huwag tayo mawawalan ng pag-asa. Dahil ang Pilipino ay likas na matapang, magaling, masipag at mabuti."
He concluded with a unifying declaration: “Tayo ang Bagong Pilipinas.”
Reaction Summary
President Marcos’ 2025 SONA highlighted his administration’s key achievements and ongoing efforts to improve public service, education, and infrastructure.
He acknowledged the people’s frustrations and promised faster, more effective governance.
His push for accountability in flood control and anti-corruption efforts was a strong statement.
Overall, the SONA was hopeful but underscored the need for real action beyond promises.
— The Summit Express