Marcos' Sona Draws Rebuke: Rights Groups 'Disappointed'

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. laid out a sweeping domestic agenda in his State of the Nation Address (Sona), promising expanded tax exemptions, multi-billion-peso social safety nets, and an uncompromising defense of the West Philippine Sea. However, the address quickly drew sharp rebukes from rights groups and civic leaders who branded it as 'disappointing.' While the speech dedicated significant time to boosting the domestic economy and expanding social welfare programs, human rights advocates pointed out the lack of specific mention of concerns regarding human rights abuses within the country and alleged incidents from past administrations. Many expressed that the detailed explanation of a clear roadmap for improving the human rights situation under the current administration and relief measures for victims was underwhelming. Although President Marcos strongly emphasized the resolute defense of sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, some activists feel that the importance of addressing domestic human rights issues was not sufficiently demonstrated. They argue that alongside economic development and ensuring national security, the realization of a society where every citizen's rights are respected is the true foundation of national progress. While this address signaled an intent to achieve economic stability and strengthen national security to meet public expectations, it also elicited a sense of bewilderment from those who had anticipated a more in-depth approach to the deep-rooted human rights challenges that Philippine society has long faced.