QUEZON CITY | President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. placed public vigilance and government accountability at the center of his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, urging Filipinos to remain involved in monitoring the government as his administration continues to pursue its promises.

The President’s address came as his administration faced continued scrutiny over its performance, with only two of 53 priority bills endorsed by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council enacted into law nearly a year into the 20th Congress.

“Ang inyong pagbabantay at pakikialam sa pamahalaan ay ang susi sa paglaban sa katiwalian,” Marcos said, pointing to citizens’ reports and complaints as among the factors that helped the government pursue alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

He also reported updates on ongoing flood control efforts, including project reassessments and stricter monitoring of contractors, alongside a broader review of infrastructure planning and implementation under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is undergoing internal reorganization to improve transparency and efficiency.

This placed citizens not merely as recipients of government programs, but also as participants in holding officials accountable, particularly as the administration continues its investigation into contractors, officials, and lawmakers implicated in the controversy. Marcos said that nearly ₱25 billion in money and properties linked to accused individuals had been recovered, frozen, or preserved, with more than ₱800 million already returned to the national Treasury.

Beyond flood control, Marcos outlined the government’s response to global energy and economic pressures, including measures to stabilize oil supply, manage fuel prices, and cushion the impact of international market volatility. He also announced continued support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), recognizing their role in sustaining the economy through expanded assistance programs and faster government services.

To ease the burden on consumers, the President cited the suspension of excise tax on fuel and other relief measures, alongside expanded “ayuda” for vulnerable sectors and targeted tax relief initiatives aimed at low-income families and workers affected by rising prices.

Marcos also highlighted ongoing efforts in infrastructure and transportation, including major road, rail, and airport projects intended to improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs.

In agriculture, he reported programs aimed at boosting food production, supporting farmers and fisherfolk, and stabilizing rice and basic commodity prices.

On social services, the President discussed improvements in labor programs, education reforms, and health initiatives, including expanded access to medical services and the strengthening of public hospitals. He also emphasized the “Yakap Program,” designed to provide more responsive and compassionate healthcare support for Filipinos in need.

“Hindi ako Pangulo ng aking pamilya. Hindi ako Pangulo ng aking kaibigan,” Marcos declared, stressing that his responsibility is to the Filipino people rather than to personal relationships.

The SONA also touched on public safety and national concerns, including the government’s response to the Tacloban school shooting, which prompted renewed calls for stronger security in educational institutions and mental health support systems.

In sports and culture, Marcos cited Filipino pride in international competitions, including tennis standout Alex Eala and the continued development of Philippine football and other national sports programs, which he said reflect the country’s growing global presence.

On foreign affairs and national security, the President reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to defending its sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, while maintaining diplomatic engagement with other nations. He underscored the importance of protecting maritime rights and strengthening alliances amid regional tensions.

The statement comes as the administration continues to face questions about whether its promises are translating into results, particularly in areas directly affecting Filipinos such as poverty, prices, employment, and public services. A March 2026 Social Weather Stations survey found that 52% or about 14.5 million Filipino families considered themselves poor, a one-percentage-point increase from the previous November.

While Marcos presented government responses across economic recovery, energy stability, agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, labor, and national security, the results of these programs remain matters that Filipinos can assess beyond the promises made from the SONA podium.

With the President himself emphasizing the importance of citizens’ involvement in government, the SONA leaves Filipinos with a responsibility that extends beyond listening: to observe whether the administration’s commitments are fulfilled and whether the promised reforms produce tangible results.