Sara Duterte calls Marcos' SONA 'waste of time'

Vice President Sara Duterte has publicly stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) was a 'waste of time.' The Vice President mentioned she did not watch the address, hinting at her dissatisfaction with its content. In his SONA, President Marcos Jr. outlined plans for the nation's technological advancement and the well-being of its citizens. Notably, he announced that the Philippines will launch its first liquid-fueled sounding rocket from Cagayan in 2027, marking a significant step in the country's space exploration endeavors. The President also mentioned Filipino tennis sensation Alex Eala, expressing hope that her success would inspire more Filipinos, particularly the youth, to engage in sports. Eala's achievements could potentially boost the development of local sports and promote a healthier lifestyle among the population. The address highlights political dynamics within the Philippines and diverse visions for the nation's future. The Vice President's sharp remarks suggest potential internal disagreements within the administration, while the President's announcements aim to convey a forward-looking message of investment in science, technology, and citizen welfare. Separately, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan's Kyushu region on the same day, prompting alerts for seismic activity that could potentially affect the Philippine archipelago. Source: Rappler Philippines