As President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. prepares for his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), the stakes have never been higher. The Philippines stands at a crossroads, grappling with a multitude of challenges that require decisive leadership and urgent action.
The specter of unemployment and underemployment continues to haunt the Philippine economy. Despite government efforts, the job market remains unstable, leaving millions of Filipinos without stable, well-paying jobs. The youth, in particular, are bearing the brunt of this crisis, facing a future with limited opportunities. President Marcos must present a clear, actionable plan to stimulate job growth, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and invest in education and skills training to prepare the workforce for the demands of the modern economy.
One of the most glaring failures of the current administration has been its inability to ensure food security and boost agricultural productivity, considering that these are his well-versed political promise during the 2022 Presidential campaign. Farmers are struggling with rising costs of farming inputs and inadequate support from the national government, leading to decreased production and increased reliance on agricultural imports. This not only threatens the livelihood of millions of Filipino farmers but also jeopardizes the nation’s food sovereignty. President Bongbong Marcos must outline concrete and actionable steps to revitalize the agricultural sector, including subsidies, modern farming technologies, and better infrastructure.
Another issue that is worth tackling is the persistent Chinese incursions into the West Philippine Sea, which represent a significant threat to national and regional security and state sovereignty. The PBBM government’s response has been criticized as tepid and ineffective, eroding public confidence in the ability of the current administration to secure and defend our territorial integrity. President Marcos must take a firmer stance, leveraging international alliances and strengthening the country’s maritime capabilities to protect Philippine territory and assert its rights under international law.
Controversy has surrounded the influence of Speaker Martin Romualdez and First Lady Liza Marcos over presidential decisions. This perceived nepotism and favoritism undermine the integrity of the PBBM’s administration and erode public trust. President Marcos must address these concerns transparently, reaffirming his commitment to governance free from undue influence and ensuring that decisions are made in the nation’s best interest.
Another obvious concern is the rising street crime and corruption, particularly involving Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and identity theft by foreign nationals, is a pressing concern. These issues not only threaten public safety but also tarnish the country’s reputation. President Marcos must announce the administration’s comprehensive legislative and administrative measures to combat crime, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and crack down on corrupt practices within both public and private sectors.
Economically, Filipinos are yearning for a coherent and visionary economic and social plan that addresses immediate needs and long-term goals. President Marcos must present a detailed blueprint that includes strategies for economic recovery, social welfare improvements, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability. This plan should prioritize inclusive growth, ensuring development benefits reach all Filipinos, especially the marginalized and vulnerable.
President Bongbong Marcos should take his 3rd SONA as a golden opportunity to confront these pressing issues head-on and to reassure the Filipino people that his commitment to the nation demands bold action, transparency, and a clear vision for the future. The time for political rhetoric is over; what is needed now is decisive leadership and tangible results. The eyes of the nation—and the world—will be on President Marcos as he delivers his address. The path he chooses will shape the destiny of the Philippines for years to come.
