House Speaker Martin Romualdez | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of the House of Representatives of the Philippines
MANILA, Philippines — Preparations for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 22 are complete, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said on Tuesday.
Romualdez said the Batasang Pambansa Complex where the Sona will be held has been prepared as a “grand stage for another historic presidential address.”
The final inter-agency meeting on the Sona was held on Monday.
“The anticipation within the hallowed halls of this august chamber is palpable as we stand ready to hear and appreciate the accomplishments of the Marcos administration,” Romualdez said.
“It fills me with immense pride to recognize the significant role that the House of Representatives has played in crafting legislation and policies that promote the welfare of all Filipinos. We are excited for the President’s SONA because we know he has many positive developments to share with the nation,” he added.
According to Romualdez, the Sona will “provide a comprehensive overview of the administration’s progress and set the stage for future legislative initiatives.”
“And we, at the House of Representatives, are united with the President in his desire to advance the many reforms and programs he will announce during the Sona. This is a time for unity, and we fully support our President,” he added.
Last July 4, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said among the changes made by the House leadership was the placement of windows at the North and South Lobbies, and the air-conditioning of both areas to make it more comfortable for the guests.
READ: House in final stages of preparations for Sona, says Velasco
Velasco on July 10 said the P20-million budget for the 2024 Sona covers meals, renovation, and materials needed for the event.
READ: House: P20-M Sona budget covers food, renovation, materials