By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. was prompt in translating the commitments he outlined in his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) into action, embarking on a series of engagements across the country focused on healthcare, housing, energy, food security, and grassroots development.
The President’s activities this week demonstrated his clear vision of sustaining the momentum of his governance by bringing key government programs directly to communities and strengthening institutions that support national development.
From Luzon to Mindanao, Marcos led inspections of vital infrastructure, launched government initiatives, met with foreign diplomats, and oversaw judicial appointments.
Healthcare and housing
A day after delivering his SONA on Monday, Marcos traveled to Davao de Oro to inspect the Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital Montevista, where he turned over PHP147.94 million to augment the hospital’s medical equipment.
The visit highlighted his administration’s continuing efforts to improve public healthcare facilities and ensure that Filipinos have better access to quality medical services.
The President’s inspection was part of his commitment to strengthen the healthcare system, one of the priorities he emphasized during his SONA.
Later that day, Marcos led another leg of the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang program, covering the provinces of Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao Occidental.
The initiative aims to deliver essential services and assistance directly to beneficiaries in the provinces funded through the Local Government Support Fund and the Socio-Civic Projects Fund.
Under the initiative, residents gained access to social services, livelihood opportunities, financial assistance, and other government interventions.
The program was implemented to ensure that no community is left behind in the country’s development.
Marcos capped his visit to Mindanao with an inspection of People’s Ville in Davao City, where he committed to add 42 new buildings, which he promised would be completed by the end of 2027.
The housing project reflects the government’s commitment to providing safe and decent homes for Filipino families while addressing the country’s housing backlog.
The President has repeatedly stressed that adequate housing remains a key pillar of inclusive development.
Energy security
On Wednesday, Marcos shifted his focus to the energy sector by leading the inauguration of the Energy Museum in Taguig City, an interactive facility showcasing the country’s diverse energy resources.
The event coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).
In his remarks, Marcos underscored the importance of energy security while pursuing EPIRA reforms that would make electricity more reliable, affordable, and sustainable.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to expanding the country’s energy sources and encouraging investments in the sector.
The Energy Museum showcases the history and development of Philippine energy while promoting greater public awareness of the sector’s role in nation-building.
Focused on governance
Later that day, Marcos received the farewell calls of Hungarian Ambassador Titanilla Tóth and Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts at Malacañan Palace in Manila.
The meetings reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with both Hungary and the Netherlands.
The President expressed appreciation for the outgoing ambassadors’ contributions in strengthening diplomatic cooperation during their respective assignments.
Also on Wednesday, Marcos administered the oath of office to newly appointed Court of Tax Appeals Associate Justices Debbie Jean Centeno Dijamco and Paolo Sierra Teston.
The oath-taking underscored the administration’s support for a strong and independent judiciary that promotes fairness and accountability in governance.
Food security
On Thursday, Marcos visited Pangasinan to inspect the rehabilitated Sual Fish Port.
The inspection reflected the government’s efforts to modernize fisheries and infrastructure and improve the country’s food supply chain.
The President directed the Department of Agriculture to continue upgrading fish ports nationwide to help increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve the livelihood of fisherfolk.
The directive supports the administration’s food security agenda aimed at ensuring stable and affordable food supplies for Filipino consumers.
After the facility inspection, Marcos proceeded to the pier area where he met local fishermen and personnel of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources who were recently subjected to water cannon attacks by the China Coast Guard while conducting a routine mission near Bajo de Masinloc.
Regional development
From Pangasinan, Marcos proceeded to Tarlac City for another leg of the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang Program.
Aside from delivering integrated services closer to communities, Marcos emphasized the need to improve public access to government assistance through a coordinated approach between the national and local governments.
Marcos also visited the Northern Luzon Command, where he met with military personnel and reiterated the government’s support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
His camp visit highlighted the administration’s commitment to strengthening national defense while recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers.
Delivering on SONA
The President’s post-SONA engagements mirrored many priorities outlined in his annual address, particularly improving healthcare, strengthening food security, modernizing infrastructure, ensuring energy resilience, and bringing government services closer to the people.
The series of regional visits also underscored Marcos’ directive for government agencies to move beyond policy announcements by ensuring that programs are implemented efficiently on the ground.
Through inspections, dialogues, and direct engagement with local communities, the administration sought to demonstrate that concrete actions back the commitments made during the SONA. (PNA)
