Zubiri expects inflation, food prices, wages, Pogos to be in Sona speech
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri (second from right)(File photo from Bibo Nueva España / Senate PRIB)
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri outlined on Friday the topics that he expects to come up in the third State of the Nation Address (Sona) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
According to Zubiri, among the topics that he would like to hear from the president’s speech are the administration’s moves against inflation and actions to reduce food prices.
READ: What happens on Sona Day besides the President’s speech?
“In his third State of the Nation Address this coming Monday, I look forward to listening to the President’s plan on bringing down inflation and the high cost of goods, particularly rice, to ensure that economic growth benefits every working-class Filipino,” Zubiri said in a statement.
The senator also wants to hear about increases in the salary of minimum wage workers to help them in their daily needs.
“Isa rin sa mga isyung nais nating matalakay ng Pangulo ay ang pagtataas ng arawang sahod ng ating mga minimum wage earners na mas nagdurusa dahil sa pagtaas ng inflation,” the lawmaker said.
(Another issue that we wish for the president to discuss is the increase in the daily wage of our minimum wage earners who suffer more because of the rising inflation.)
“The wage increases of late are not enough to help Filipinos cope with rising prices of goods,” he observed.
Zubiri likewise said there should be a resolution on what is to be done to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
He cited various issues such as the alleged illegal activities found by authorities inside Pogo hubs.
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“The industry has been plagued by criminal activities, and the social costs far outweigh the revenues,” Zubiri said.
“It is time for a clear policy on POGOs, whether it involves an immediate ban or a phased transition to other industries for affected workers,” he added.
Marcos will deliver his third Sona before a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives on Monday, July 22.
