Iloilo: Political leaders in Iloilo and Guimaras are hopeful that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will emphasize infrastructure development, agriculture, poverty reduction, and local government programs in his forthcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA).
According to Philippines News Agency, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. expressed his expectation for the president to outline strategies to expedite major infrastructure and agriculture projects. Defensor highlighted these sectors as essential for driving economic growth. During a recent press conference, he remarked that infrastructure is a critical component of the SONA, as it serves as a primary economic driver.
Governor Defensor is particularly keen on hearing about the Iloilo-Capiz-Aklan Expressway Project (ICAEx), which is designed to enhance connectivity among the three provinces, alleviate traffic congestion, improve logistics and emergency response, and expand tourism opportunities. The proposed expressway will stretch 210 kilometers and pass through 20 municipalities in Iloilo, Capiz, and Aklan.
In addition to infrastructure, Defensor is eager for the president to address agriculture initiatives, focusing on rice production and regulatory programs, as well as the direction of the Universal Health Care program. He noted that Iloilo has received benefits from several significant projects under the Marcos administration, including additional funding for the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project's high-line canal, the Panay-Guimaras Bridge set to commence construction, and other agricultural projects.
Badiangan Mayor Suzette Mamon, who leads the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP)-Iloilo chapter, expressed her hope that the SONA will provide updates on poverty alleviation efforts, infrastructure projects, and programs aimed at vulnerable sectors. Mamon emphasized the importance of government projects that focus on grassroots communities, local government units, and barangays.
Jordan, Guimaras Mayor John Edward Gando, president of the LMP-Guimaras chapter, also shared his anticipation for the SONA. Gando wants details on the priorities for the remainder of Marcos' administration, particularly regarding agriculture and projects slated for completion before 2028. He is also interested in the president's stance on the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, including potential urgent legislation to adjust the terms of barangay and SK officials.
Both Mamon and Gando plan to attend the president's SONA on July 27.
