Reflections on the SONA 2013

By Randell Tiongson on July 22nd, 2013

To be honest, I never really paid much attention to the State of the Nation address of the Presidents. The last administration’s SONA were full of ambiguity and questionable claims. Lately, the SONA of President Noynoy has been something I have been paying attention to and for the first time in decades, I actually listened to it live as it was happening. I’ve actually participated in the SONA this year by posting some of my thoughts through my twitter account (@randelltiongson).

Sona 2013

It was nice to hear the accomplishments of the President for the year that has passed and I am eager to see many of the plans unfolding which will bring the country to a better situation and environment. There are many things that this present administration that needs to be addressed and with only 3 more years in his term. the President must accomplish much.

There are many gains in this administration and there are 2 giant accomplishments that  this administration has been able to accomplish – a drastic reduction of systemic corruption (still far from ideal) and our investment grade status. The nation’s economy has been on an over-drive and it’s about time. Inclusive growth however, seems to be still elusive but I am realistic enough to know that it will take a long time. What I like with this administration is that he seems to be genuinely sincere in leaving a better government for the the next President, like history repeating itself.

Many things needs to be addressed still such as generation of more jobs and better jobs at that. Only when we can have more and better employment can we really say that there is inclusive growth.

I am hopeful for the next 3 years of this administration but even the President understands his limitations. It is my belief that we need to support the President in his reforms and that we need to constantly pray for him and the nation. The Bible says “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” – Psalm 33:12, NIV

I’ve also asked the thoughts of my friend Dr. Alvin Ang, President of the Philippine Economic Society and this is what his views are:

“PNoy’s 4th SONA is a Call for Contribution. ‘Makiambag sa Solusyon.’ There are no direct allusion to the economy except that there are current efforts though not seen that are happening such as job creation in technical skills and the exportation of rice.”

“Infrastructure that are correctly priced and of quality are the order of the day. They may be causing delays but transparency will make sure that things are right. Overall, the warning about those who continue to defy the Matuwid na Daan is an admission that overall change takes time.”

“This President indeed means business and he is doing things navigating through the democratic process. This is great encouragement for me as a Filipino.”

Let us pray as a nation for the nation.

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