Marcos Highlights Anti-Corruption Drive, Public Welfare in SONA

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa Complex, emphasizing his administration's commitment to combating corruption and ensuring the stability and well-being of the Filipino people. Marcos began by reporting on the progress of investigations into corruption in flood control projects, a key focus from his previous address. He stated that several contractors, high-ranking officials, and even lawmakers have been charged and imprisoned. The Ombudsman is reportedly nearing the filing of multiple cases against a former Speaker of the House. "I am not president of my family, I am not president of my friends. I am president of the Philippines, and my duty is to you, my fellow Filipinos," Marcos declared, underscoring his commitment to public service. The administration has recovered, frozen, and preserved approximately P25 billion in illicit funds and assets linked to corrupt practices. Over P800 million of this has already been returned to the National Treasury, with all recovered funds intended for the public coffers. Reforms within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are underway, including the recruitment of new graduates and trusted personnel. Projects are being meticulously reviewed from planning to implementation, with measures in place to prevent overpricing through market-based pricing and enhanced transparency via a Transparency Portal, Integrity Chain, and collaboration with Civil Society Organizations. In response to the energy crisis exacerbated by the conflict in the Middle East, a State of National Energy Emergency was declared. The government has prioritized essential services and programs, redirecting funds to areas of greatest need. Financial support to local government units has also been increased to enhance service delivery. Significant efforts have been made to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the Middle East conflict. Over 12,000 Filipinos have been safely repatriated, and more than 140,000 have received various forms of assistance, including food, financial aid, medical care, and shelter. Upon return, programs like the AKSYON Fund and OWWA-Kabuhayan are available for re-employment, alongside job fairs and opportunities for overseas deployment. Regarding energy supply, the Philippines has secured sufficient oil supplies, even amidst disruptions like the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, by diversifying import sources to include Japan, South Korea, Oman, India, Russia, and China. Negotiations with Iran have also taken place to ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers. The government has worked to moderate fuel price increases and has suspended excise taxes on LPG and kerosene for three months, while also limiting price hikes on imported rice. To address job losses and economic hardship, the government has continued to hold nationwide job fairs. On Labor Day, nearly 100 job fairs offered around 300,000 positions, resulting in over 6,000 on-the-spot hires. Information Source: Philstar Nation