Vice President Leni Robredo. FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo and other personalities like former presidents and members of the diplomatic corps attended President Rodrigo Duterte’s State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Monday through teleconferencing.
The live feed of Robredo and other individuals like former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and other senators who did not attend the Sona physically were shown while Duterte was making his introductions.
The feeds of Senators Manny Pacquiao, Koko Pimentel, Imee Marcos, Lito Lapid, Joel Villanueva, and Juan Miguel Zubiri were also shown in parts while Duterte was making his address.
Aside from the following, Duterte also mentioned Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta among those attending the Sona.
Duterte’s fifth Sona takes on a more non-traditional turn due to the ongoing pandemic, with only 50 attendees — composed of select cabinet officials, senators, and representatives — allowed to physically be present at the Batasang Pambansa to avoid possible coronavirus transmissions.
Members of the media were not allowed inside the House of Representatives complex for additional protection.
According to Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, the Sona would probably not go over an hour and 20 minutes, although Duterte may insert adlibs if he wishes to do so.