The Quantum’s Statement

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, 2024, presenting the administration’s priorities and responses to pressing national issues, including economic, political, and social matters, for the coming year.

In his address yesterday, Marcos harped on concerns such as inflation, particularly focusing on rising rice prices, and pledged improvements in energy infrastructure. The president also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to disaster preparedness and educational reforms. He also addressed matters concerning the country’s state in tourism and healthcare. Lastly, Marcos discussed his foreign policy positions on the West Philippine Sea and ended by announcing the immediate ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

While the Quantum’s Editorial Board agrees that Marcos’ addresses are truly commendable and powerful, some if not most rely on effective implementation before showing results. This is especially true with the agricultural sector dabbling in renewable energy, the education sector prioritizing bridging the “digital gap”, the infrastructural sector dealing in ways to increase bandwidth and internet connectivity capability, and even a slight mention of exploring artificial intelligence and its practical use. More than ever before, the administration is dealing in new territory, requiring meticulous planning in order to minimize possible losses and ensure the many projects’ success.

We also acknowledge the long-awaited ban on POGOs, which have been linked to serious crimes such as financial scams, money laundering, and human trafficking. It is peremptory for Marcos to provide clear directives on the cessation of operations for the remaining Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), given that the regulator’s authority extends only to legal operators. The 43 IGLs currently employ approximately 40,000 Filipinos, raising significant concerns regarding job displacement and the transition to alternative legal gaming operations, such as land-based casinos. The responsibility for addressing the persistent issue of illegal POGOs, which continue to operate covertly, now falls to law enforcement agencies and local government units. While the ban on POGOs is a positive development, additional measures are necessary to effectively address and eradicate the illegal activities associated with gaming.

In tandem with addressing illicit industries, the President’s focus should also turn to fulfilling the constitutional mandate to prioritize education. The 1987 Constitution imposes that the highest budgetary priority be given to education. This is a legal obligation, not a discretionary choice by any president. While President Marcos Jr. has claimed credit for improvements in higher education, the true driving force behind this recognition is the hard work of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), empowered by their constitutionally guaranteed academic freedom. To support education, President Marcos Jr. should announce substantial budget increases for all state universities and colleges, potentially tripling the 2024 budget allocation. As a student publication from a public science high school, we emphasize the gravity of this situation and call for curriculum updates, infrastructure investments, and salary increases. 

While the Quantum recognizes the administration’s plans and achievements in various sectors that are laid in the SONA, certain issues remain unaddressed by the president. The absence of discussion on the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity/Expression (SOGIE) Equality bill, and the Divorce bill are notable gaps. The first in particular speaks volumes for the current state of press freedom in the Philippines. Such matters cannot fly under the radar as something not of top priority. Doing so only blurs the line of the nation’s information transparency. This proves that significant public issues are yet to be given the attention they command and that the SONA leaves much to be desired in this regard.

The Quantum firmly believes that true evidence of a nation’s progress must stem from genuine experiences with government interventions, not merely polished or manufactured narratives. We stand united with the Filipino people in declaring that rhetoric alone is insufficient. The continual cycle of acoustic politics without substantial progress on critical issues is no longer acceptable, and most definitely not fitting of the title “Bagong Pilipinas.” After captivating the populace of cascades of promises and assurances, we call on President Marcos Jr. to roll in now the tangible results. 

References

[1] GMA Integrated News. (2024). 40,000 Filipino workers to be affected by POGO ban — PAGCOR. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/914407/40-000-filipino-workers-to-be-affected-by-pogo-ban-pagcor/story/