Bicol: Bicolanos commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for tackling the country's pressing issues and laying out specific plans to improve in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered Monday. Albay 1st District Board Member Sheina Onrubia-Dela Cruz said the SONA focused on social services that match her priorities in literacy, nutrition, health, and good governance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dela Cruz expressed excitement about the concrete programs that will benefit Albayanos, especially in agriculture, power and energy, and transport. She highlighted the expansion of free public Wi-Fi, digital access in schools, and disaster-resilient facilities as signs of hope for inclusive growth and climate readiness in the region. Dela Cruz is confident that Albay can maximize the programs for better service to the communities.
Ken Tabuena, who works for a non-government organization focused on disaster management, noted that Marcos' SONA this year resonates with the public, particularly in light of recent issues and disasters affecting the Philippines. He emphasized that the President's speech, delivered in Filipino, underscores his intention to speak for the masses. Tabuena pointed out the President's focus on recent flooding due to mismanagement and his call for accountability in flood control projects.
Merlie Barba, a teacher from Pangilao Elementary School in San Miguel, Catanduanes, expressed happiness about the prioritization of improvements to the country's education system. Barba is optimistic about the government's efforts to provide new laptops to teachers, making teaching more accessible.
Lily Nocomora of Legazpi City appreciated Marcos' awareness of the severe consequences faced by Filipinos after disasters, especially his vow to pursue corrupt officials involved in flood control projects. This, she said, demonstrates the President's commitment to genuine solutions and accountability.
Geraldine Posadas of Donsol, Sorsogon, was pleased with the government projects, particularly the zero balance billing initiative by the Department of Health, which assures access to hospital services without financial burden.
Meanwhile, public school teachers in Daraga, Albay praised the Free Wi-Fi for All program launched by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Christene Villanueva, the Information and Communication Technology coordinator at Mabini Elementary School, acknowledged the administration's efforts to enhance access to technology and digital infrastructure.
Villanueva detailed how the program transforms classrooms and provides students with equal opportunities to learn and grow in the digital age. Before gaining Wi-Fi access, the school faced challenges due to its remote location, relying on limited resources like textbooks and face-to-face interactions. With the program, students can now access information online, participate in virtual classes, and communicate easily.
Francheska Ysabelle dela Mar, a Grade 5 learner, expressed gratitude for the free Wi-Fi, noting that it aids in understanding lessons through videos and makes learning easier. Marife Montero, a Kindergarten teacher, highlighted how the program helps in lesson preparation, allowing her to use digital tools instead of traditional materials for instructional purposes.
