Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) is not just a report but a resounding call for reform, vigilance, and action, the chief of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, MinDA chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso Magno expressed strong support for President Marcos Jr.'s reaffirmation of his administration's commitment to agriculture, infrastructure, fiscal integrity, and anti-corruption, aligning seamlessly with MinDA's strategic goals. Magno emphasized his backing of the vision for a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines), aiming for purposeful governance, meaningful infrastructure, and development reaching even the farthest barangay.

A significant theme of the President's address is the urgent push to modernize and empower the agricultural sector. Over the past three years, more than 8.5 million farmers and fisherfolk have received government support. Through the construction of 2,050 kilometers of farm-to-market roads and 1,568 meters of new bridges, the administration is working to connect communities, unlock markets, and revitalize local economies.

Magno highlighted the importance of these gains for Mindanao, where agriculture remains the lifeblood of many provinces. He also noted that irrigation achievements have benefited over 1.27 million farmers across the country, with many residing in Mindanao, leading to a PHP2/kilogram drop in palay (unhusked rice) production costs, offering farmers a real shot at profitability.

Furthermore, Magno cited the President's strong stance against corruption in infrastructure, particularly in flood control projects, resonating with Mindanao communities that have faced flooding due to natural factors and poorly built, overpriced, or "ghost" infrastructure projects.