Manila: House Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III on Tuesday joined House officials in a final run-through and inspection of the plenary hall, declaring the House of Representatives ready to host the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 27.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dy emphasized the duty of ensuring that every aspect of the SONA is orderly, safe, and worthy of its importance. He noted the significance of the day not only for the government but for every Filipino, as it serves as a platform for the President to report on the state of the nation and the direction it will take.
Dy also mentioned that the House and the Office of the President have agreed to keep this year's SONA simple yet dignified, reflecting its constitutional significance. The inspection on Tuesday marked the culmination of weeks of preparation and followed the final inter-agency coordination meeting, where operational details for the President's address were finalized.
House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil confirmed that all logistical concerns are addressed, including seating arrangements for dignitaries and viewing rooms for guests who cannot be accommodated inside the plenary hall. Garafil led officials from the Office of the President in inspecting the route President Marcos will take to the plenary hall.
Preparations for the July 27 SONA included significant improvements to the House complex. These upgrades involved completing the second and third floors of the Main Building, enhancing hallways and common areas, and constructing new al fresco lounges for members and guests. The plenary hall has been fully prepared for the joint session of Congress.
To ensure safety, the House has implemented extensive contingency measures. Approximately 30 medical personnel from the House Medical and Dental Service, alongside teams from St. Luke's Medical Center, Diliman Doctors Hospital, the Philippine Heart Center, and East Avenue Medical Center, will be stationed throughout the complex. Additional responders from the Department of Health, local government units, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine National Police will be on standby for emergencies.