Marcos’ 2026 Sona: Flood Control, Tax, Power Reforms Take Center Stage

MANILA, Philippines — In his penultimate State of the Nation Address (Sona), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. touted his administration's accomplishments and laid out new commitments, highlighting updates on the flood control scandal and proposed amendments to policies involving tax and electricity. Based on INQUIRER’s time count, the 2026 address lasted for one hour and 26 minutes. The President's speech focused on issues directly impacting the lives of Filipinos, particularly addressing the ongoing flood control scandal. Marcos Jr. is expected to have detailed the administration's response and measures to prevent future recurrences. Flooding remains a critical concern in the Philippines due to frequent typhoons and heavy rainfall, with citizens demanding effective infrastructure development and anti-corruption measures. Furthermore, proposed reforms in taxation and the power sector were central themes. These initiatives aim to stimulate the national economy, alleviate the burden on citizens, and ensure a stable electricity supply. Given the Philippines' economic challenges, including inflationary pressures and volatile energy prices, these policy shifts could significantly affect domestic and foreign investors, as well as the daily lives of ordinary citizens. As this is Marcos Jr.'s final Sona before the end of his term, the address is likely to reflect a strong intent to solidify his administration's legacy. By outlining concrete actions on these high-interest issues, the President likely seeks to maintain his support base and legitimize his governance for the remainder of his term.