Marcos’ SONA anti-corruption vow needs sustained action beyond rhetoric, analysts say

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) has signaled a strong resolve to combat corruption, with a notable mention of holding accountable those allegedly involved in graft-ridden flood control projects, including former House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez. Political analysts view this move as a significant demonstration of the administration’s anti-corruption stance. Gary D. Ador Dionisio, dean of the School of Diplomacy and Governance at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, stated that opening the SONA by addressing these allegations, even involving close political allies, shows an awareness of the need to confront corruption to restore public trust. However, he cautioned that the credibility of this resolve hinges on impartial prosecutions, institutional reforms, and full accountability, rather than just strong rhetoric. Michael Henry Ll. Yusingco, a fellow at the Ateneo de Manila University Policy Center, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that naming the former Speaker is crucial for signaling the seriousness and scope of the anti-corruption drive. He suggested that the President's acknowledgment of the Office of the Ombudsman's involvement indicates that civil society should now focus its attention on the anti-graft body. Yusingco, however, expressed disappointment over the limited discussion on concrete plans to address corruption within the executive branch. During his address, President Marcos stated, “We have reached the point where, according to the Ombudsman, multiple charges are nearing filing against the former House Speaker. Painful as this may be for me, we must do what is right.” He further asserted, “I am not the President of my family, nor am I the President of my friends. I am the President of the Philippines, and my duty is to you, my fellow Filipinos.” In response, Mr. Romualdez issued a statement respecting the President’s remarks and asserting that he has never sought special treatment and has violated no laws, expressing his readiness to prove his innocence. Following the SONA, the Ombudsman’s preliminary investigation team ordered Mr. Romualdez and two other respondents to file their counter-affidavits within 15 days. With less than two years remaining in President Marcos’ term, Dionisio commented that the President’s legacy will be determined by his actions in strengthening institutions, upholding accountability, and delivering tangible reforms, rather than just the promises made in the SONA. Yusingco suggested that institutionalizing transparency and accountability within the executive branch would solidify Marcos’ anti-corruption legacy.