10 OUT OF 10. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his Second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24, 2023. House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday (July 22, 2024) gave President Marcos a perfect score for demonstrating strong leadership and the significant strides made in delivering on his promises over the past year. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday gave President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. a perfect score on his performance since his last State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July last year.
“I would grade the President's performance at a solid 10 out of 10. Over the past year, he has demonstrated strong leadership and made significant strides in delivering on his promises from the last SONA,” Romualdez said in a statement, ahead of the Executive's third SONA.
“While there is always room for improvement, his dedication and achievements thus far are truly noteworthy,” he said.
Romualdez expects President Marcos to emphasize unity and for the government to ensure the needs of the Filipino people in his third SONA.
“I expect the President to emphasize the importance of unity among all Filipinos, highlighting how collective efforts can lead to national progress,” he said in a separate statement.
“Furthermore, I anticipate a focus on the continued and immediate delivery of essential social services to ensure that the needs of the people are met promptly and effectively.”
He said Marcos would likely propose as SONA priority bills, initiatives crucial in driving the country forward and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Filipinos.
These would include new laws aimed at simplifying and improving the daily lives of the people, addressing issues such as economic development, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, he said.
Romualdez vowed that as in the previous SONAs, the House of Representatives would give importance to the President’s priority measures to ensure their swift passage.
“We will work diligently to review, deliberate, and enact these proposed laws, recognizing their importance in advancing the President's legislative agenda and addressing the critical needs of our nation,” he said.
He pointed out that the House has approved all 17 priority measures mentioned by Marcos in his last SONA, five of which have been enacted into law: the LGU Income Classification (RA 11964), the Ease of Paying Taxes Act (RA 11976), the Tatak Pinoy Law (RA 11981), the New Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 12009), and the Anti-Financial Accounts Scamming Act (RA 12010).
“Our commitment is to continue delivering timely and effective legislation that benefits all Filipinos,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker added he expected close cooperation with the new Senate leadership on passing priority measures.
“We anticipate a strong collaborative relationship with the new Senate leadership under Senate President Chiz Escudero. This partnership is crucial for the smooth passage of pending legislation,” he said.
“We are confident that our cooperative efforts will lead to the successful enactment of key legislative measures,” he added.
Romualdez pointed out that the House would continue to focus on approving needed legislative proposals ahead of the May 2025 elections.
“We are committed to maintaining legislative momentum despite the approaching national elections in 2025,” he said.
“Our priority is to ensure that critical bills are passed and that the legislative process continues to serve the people's needs effectively. We will navigate the political landscape with a focus on stability and progress,” he stressed. (PNA)
