Duterte to tackle West Philippine Sea issue in Sona 2019 — Palace

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to tackle the issue of the West Philippine Sea and other major issues in the country during his fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona), Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Sunday.

“We can expect that he will tackle the promises he made on fighting corruption, illegal drugs, criminality, and rebellion. We can also expect that he will speak about other major issues, such as that of the West Philippine Sea, ways to sustain the growth in our economy, as well as his legislative agenda,” Panelo said in a statement.

Aside from this, Duterte is also expected to bare his plans for the country for the remaining years of his term, as well as his accomplishments for the past three years.

“The past year has been meaningful and we are all excited for what was prepared for tomorrow’s momentous event,” he added.

A number of police mobile and motorcycle vehicles will be deployed to ensure the safety of Duterte’s guests on Monday.

READ: PNP to deploy 72 motorcycle cops, 36 mobile cars to secure Sona convoy

Senators, congressmen, the diplomatic corps, and other government officials are expected to attend the event.

Vice President Leni Robredo also confirmed her attendance.

Meanwhile, presidential daughter Sara Duterte earlier said that she would not be attending the fourth Sona of his father since she is currently on “special medical leave for 60 days.”

READ: Sara Duterte to skip father’s fourth SONA

Around 1,500 enforcers will be assisting in the management of traffic and the trash cleanup at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City. /je