Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) to remain simple as the country faces global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and rising oil prices, Malaca±ang said Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President himself prefers a modest program for the July 27 address. "'Yan po talaga ang plano at 'yan din po ang gusto ng Pangulo (That has always been the plan, and that is what the President wants)," Castro said when asked whether the President opted for a more austere SONA in light of prevailing issues affecting the country.

She stated that the program will not feature celebrity directors or performances, in keeping with the President's directive for a simple but dignified event. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Chorale has been tapped to sing the Philippine National Anthem, while Radio Television Malaca±ang (RTVM) will direct the program.

The House of Representatives, which hosts the annual constitutional event, is coordinating with the Office of the President for the preparations. Marcos is set to deliver his penultimate SONA before a joint session of Congress on July 27. The annual address serves as the President's report to the nation on the administration's accomplishments, the country's current situation, and the legislative priorities for the remainder of his term.