PBBM: Despite rising threats, ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ has arrived

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday described the state of the nation as “sound and improving” despite rising hurdles, with inflation and the threat of the El Niño phenomenon among the biggest challenges.

In his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) to Congress, Mr. Marcos cited the country’s growth momentum post-pandemic, buoyed by government efforts to improve agricultural production and infrastructure connectivity, among other achievements in his first 12 months in office.

The Chief Executive also said his government has enabled a more competitive workforce and created job opportunities for Filipinos, including returning OFWs; stamped out corruption and promoted transparency through digitalization programs; and ensured a strong and stable rule of law that gears the war on drugs toward rehabilitation and extending amnesty to rebel returnees.

“The state of the nation is sound and is improving. Dumating na ang bagong Pilipinas (The new Philippines has ar-