Manila: Bicolanos have warmly welcomed and expressed their gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his detailed and hopeful fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered on Monday. The address outlined specific plans aimed at improving the country and resonated well with the local populace.
According to Philippines News Agency, Catanduanes Governor Patrick Azanza praised the President's SONA for its hopeful message. He highlighted the achievements in eliminating system loss in electricity and commended the education and health programs, as well as disaster assistance initiatives. Azanza, who attended the SONA, emphasized the President's commitment to fulfilling his promises to the Filipino people.
Claudio Villareal, chief of the DSWD Bicol Disaster Response Management Division, expressed strong support for President Marcos' commitment to building permanent, modern, and disaster-resilient evacuation centers nationwide. Villareal noted that these centers are crucial for providing displaced families with safety, dignity, protection, and access to essential services. He remarked that in the Bicol Region, where natural calamities are frequent, such centers are vital social protection facilities.
Anacito Dematera, department head of BA Broadcasting at Bicol University, appreciated the President's stance on addressing system loss charges, which could lead to lower electricity bills for consumers if the EPIRA law is amended. Dematera also supported plans to increase middle-class tax exemptions, allowing families to allocate more income to essential needs.
Merlie Barba, a teacher from San Miguel, Catanduanes, acknowledged the clear outline of the government's steps in responding to the Middle East war crisis during the President's SONA. She also supported the plan to eliminate system loss charges passed on to consumers. However, Barba highlighted the need for a more concrete plan to tackle violence in schools.
Rhaydz Barcia, a media practitioner in Albay, noted the President's efforts to address post-pandemic challenges, including high inflation. She commended the zero-billing policy for government hospitals and the allocation of funds for every barangay through the LGSF, emphasizing the President's non-partisan approach in implementing programs across regions.
Eighty-year-old Angelina Cardell expressed her gratitude for the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), which greatly aids the underprivileged. She highlighted the benefits for retirees and those with low pensions.
Clarissa Gaberia from Legazpi City thanked President Marcos for continuing the Benteng Bigas Meron Na program, which she said is of significant help to many people.
