Sona outfits with derogatory words, political messages banned – House 

FILE PHOTO: President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Photo from the official Facebook page of PCO

MANILA, Philippines — Guests wearing outfits with derogatory words or political messages will be banned from attending the State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 22, according to House Secretary General Reginald Velasco.

In a press conference, Velasco said guests will either be barred from attending the event or asked to change.

READ: SONA fashion police: Ban on ‘political messages’ bucked

“Because this is Sona. It’s not a day of protest; if you want to, some areas are reserved for your protest or demonstration. This is not the place or time to express anything,” the House official said.

“If you don’t follow, you’ll be arrested and be detained in our detention center,” he added, partly speaking in Filipino.

For media personnel covering the event, clothes bearing their company names will be allowed, but outfits with expressions of protest — even faces of certain personalities in cartoon form will not be permitted, Velasco said.

“That’s a formal event. The proper attire is coat and tie or barong,” he added.

In a text message in Filipino sent to reporters, ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro said the ban “violates freedom of expression and should be opposed.”

“Even so, we in the Makabayan bloc will still wear clothes that reflect the real grievances and demands of the people during Sona,” she added