Once again, it’s time for President Duterte to address the nation in this year’s State of the Nation Address. Last year, the President promised many things in his address: fast-tracking government procedures, stricter implementation of laws, him continuing strong until his term ends, among others.
Since then, a lot has happened: the ongoing pandemic, added debts and the passing of the Anti-Terror Law. Aside from an update of the President’s promises, citizens have been demanding more accountability and action from the current administration. Here’s a list of what some people want to see at this year’s SONA:
Better communication strategies
“When will you fix your communication strategy? It’s incredibly frustrating and tiring for everyone to have to wait up until ungodly hours for an announcement that won’t push through pala. (And once the address does push through, it’s half disappointing.)” — Pauline Miranda, managing editor
Employment solutions
“What’s the comprehensive plan to create more jobs for Filipinos?” — Eric Salta, managing editor
Ever since the pandemic hit the Philippines and quarantine was enforced, many Filipinos have been financially affected. According to CNN Philippines, the Philippines Statistics Authority has recorded at least 7.3 million unemployed Filipinos in April 2020.
PH gov. officials are expecting at least 300,000 jobless OFWS to return from Jun. to Aug.
Better pandemic response
“I want him to specify exactly what his administration’s COVID-19 responses are. [What] happened to the COVID-19 budget (please provide a breakdown)? How much is our debt now and how the hell are we gonna pay that? Will he pass it on to the next administration? How did DOH handle information dissemination especially with reporting the current cases (bec[ause] it seems that all they want to do is beat the UP prediction lol which only caused more backlog and created further problems)? What will be the provisions of Bayanihan 2? What’s his plan for the rest of the year? Can our economy last?” — Marian San Pedro, content creator
Sticking to the script
“Is it really so hard to stick to the script and to facts? To honor the work of ghost writers? To address the nation at reasonable hours? Am I reaching for the stars here?” — Christian San Jose, associate editor
Safe and effective quality education
“Siguro I would ask the President if we’re really ready for an online or blended learning class knowing fully well that we have very limited and sometimes non-existent internet connection.” — Rick Gabuya, copy editor
Art by Tricia Guevara
Follow Preen on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Viber
Related Stories:
SONA 2020 takes from Sotto and Cayetano we wish we could unhear
Pres. Duterte’s promises at this year’s SONA
Pres. Duterte’s WTF moments: SONA 2019 edition
#WakaSONA: an archive of Duterte’s lousy decisions
