Filipinos Want Solutions Over Achievements in President's Address, Survey Finds

Filipinos are more inclined to hear concrete solutions to pressing national issues rather than reports of past achievements during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), according to a survey by public affairs firm EON. The survey, which polled 1,200 Filipino adults nationwide from July 7 to 10, revealed that 48.3 percent of respondents want to hear “solutions to current national problems.” This was the most chosen option, significantly outpacing the 22 percent who wanted to hear about “the administration’s accomplishments,” which was the least selected subject. Other desired topics included “anti-corruption measures and government reform” (35.6 percent), “updates on previous promises” (34.7 percent), and “plans to lower prices” (32.8 percent). EON noted that respondents “place immediate action and accountability ahead of accomplishment reporting in what they want to hear from the President.” Regarding specific issues Filipinos want addressed, “economy and inflation” emerged as the top concern, with 67.1 percent hoping it would be tackled. This was followed by “jobs and wages” (56.2 percent), “education” (53.2 percent), “agriculture and food security” (47.3 percent), “health” (44.7 percent), “cost of living” (43.3 percent), and “crime and public safety” (42.4 percent). Notably, corruption ranked relatively low among the most desired topics at 42.2 percent, though still a significant concern. Furthermore, the survey assessed public confidence in the government’s ability to fulfill its SONA commitments. Only 30.8 percent of Filipinos “believe that the government can implement the commitments” that will be mentioned in this year’s address, indicating a potential gap between public expectations and trust in the administration’s execution capabilities. The findings suggest a public sentiment that prioritizes tangible progress and actionable plans over retrospective accounts, especially in the face of ongoing economic challenges and rising living costs. The demand for clear roadmaps to address these immediate concerns is evident.