The president’s third SONA

The third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Bongbong Marcos Jr. took place last Monday. Problems and issues related to agriculture were discussed first --the price of rice, its importation, irrigation, and assistance to farmers. Agriculture is a large sector in the country, so it was the first thing the president thoroughly discussed. This was followed by the issue of climate change which the country supported. Then there was talk of improving the internet throughout the country, infrastructure such as roads and railways, airports, and ports. Expensive electricity and its inconsistent lack were also discussed. Also discussed were health, cheap medicine, an increase in PhilHealth benefits, and an adjustment of the budget for UP-PGH.

The president's statement that extermination is not the answer to the problem of illegal drugs drew lengthy applause and even a few loud cheers. President Marcos Jr. likewise received a standing ovation with his statement "The West Philippine Sea is not just an imagination. It is ours,” in the vernacular. But the longest standing along with cheers of "BBM" came with the president announcing that effective immediately all POGOs would be banned, citing the crime and social ills these have brought into the country.

Vice President Sara Duterte Carpio, Senator Go, and Senator Dela Rosa, known supporters of former president Duterte, did not attend. Team Unity seems to have disbanded. The killing of thousands supposedly involved in the illegal drug trade was a hallmark of former president Duterte’s administration as well as the shift to China and the proliferation of POGOs in the country. Coincidence that the strongest applause and standing ovations were for these three issues?

According to DOLE, about 25,000 Filipinos will be affected if POGOs are no longer allowed. So, Marcos instructed DOLE to help the locals affected. According to PAGCOR Chair Alejandro Tengco, the closing of POGOs cannot be immediately implemented. There is a process and those affected must be notified. As per PAGCOR’s data, 40,000 will be affected and ?40 billion in annual income will be lost. It is PAGCOR that rationalized the continued operation of legal POGOs because of the revenues collected through taxes. If they pay, right? The DOF, DBM, NEDA, and many lawmakers, financial, and business groups support the banning of all POGOs.

While many were satisfied with Marcos' SONA, naturally some saw it as lacking. That’s to be expected in a democracy, especially among the known and prominent opposition to the government. It is up to the government to implement everything he announced and promised. The people will be watching and waiting. Only the people can say if the promises have been kept.