Talks ongoing on how to conduct SONA

Malacanang, or the customary venue at the House of Representatives? Face to face or teleconferencing, or a hybrid session with President Rodrigo Duterte delivering his fifth state of the nation address before select members of Congress?

Discussions are underway on how this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) would be conducted amid the COVID 19 pandemic that necessitates social distancing and other health protocols.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the Presidential Security Group and the Office of the President have begun talks with Senate and House officials to determine how 5,000 lawmakers, Cabinet officials and guests can attend the SONA event while health experts continue to advise people to limit their movements, observe physical distancing and wear face masks.

The President himself has limited his public events, with Palace guests subjected to rapid testing before being allowed enry. Leila B. Salaverria