Five reasons why the State of the Nation Address should matter to you

Do you know what the president’s plans are for the coming year? Ever wondered how government policies might impact your daily grind?

As working professionals, staying informed about national affairs is more than just a civic duty—it’s about understanding how decisions made at the top could shape our career paths and everyday lives. Whether we’re cheering on new policies, giving some a side-eye, or thinking about exploring opportunities abroad, knowing what’s up helps us make informed choices.

The State of the Nation Address (SONA), held every fourth Monday of July, is like the country’s annual performance review. Just as we get updates on corporate goals and progress reports, the SONA gives us a peek into the government's plans and priorities.

It might sound like a typical political speech, but it’s a key moment for every Filipino, especially those of us forging our careers and playing our part in the nation’s journey.

Understanding Future Plans

The SONA offers a snapshot of the president’s priorities and plans for the year ahead. It provides us with a roadmap of where the country is heading and what changes might be on the horizon.

Held at the House of Representatives and attended by lawmakers from both houses, the SONA typically highlights key pieces of legislation that the president hopes to push forward. This helps us understand which policies are expected to drive the president’s goals and how they might impact our lives.

Impact on Daily Life

The policies and initiatives unveiled during the SONA can touch many areas of our lives, from healthcare and education to job opportunities and infrastructure. It’s important to stay informed about these changes so we can adapt and make the most of them.

Not every project will have an immediate effect on you, but they can impact others and the economy as a whole. For example, new infrastructure projects may create jobs right away for construction workers. Once completed, these improvements—like new roads—can reduce travel time, making life easier for commuters and helping farmers get their goods to market faster. While tourists might not feel the benefits daily, they’ll enjoy smoother travel and better experiences. Businesses could also see growth thanks to new opportunities, which might indirectly benefit you as well.

Informed Voting Decisions

The SONA provides a summary of the president’s performance and future plans. By hearing about what’s been promised and what’s been achieved, we can better judge the effectiveness of our leaders. This insight is crucial for making informed choices in future elections, ensuring we support candidates who truly align with our values.

For instance, the SONA often reveals details about new taxes and their intended use. It also updates us on foreign policy, such as whether the country will strengthen relationships with specific nations or address pressing international issues.

Even though the president won’t be up for re-election, their allies in the Senate and House of Representatives will be. We’ll need to evaluate these candidates based on their support for the administration’s agenda and their track record.

Opportunities for Growth

The SONA often highlights new programs and projects that can create exciting opportunities for every Filipino. From job creation and training programs to fresh initiatives across various fields, these developments can pave the way for career advancement for young professionals.

Entrepreneurs and businesses also stand to benefit from engaging with government projects. Major infrastructure developments, such as airports, roads, and hospitals, offer avenues for collaboration and investment.

For example, the completion of new hospitals illustrates how such projects can provide opportunities for growth. Medical professionals can access new job openings, while entrepreneurs might find opportunities to supply the hospitals or establish a pharmacy nearby.

Shaping the future through the State of the Nation Address

Staying informed today means you’re better equipped to make decisions that will shape our tomorrow. By keeping up with the SONA, you help build a savvy society where future leaders are well-informed and proactive about national issues. You might find yourself sharing insights with the next generation of public servants or even stepping into a leadership role yourself. Who knows? You could be the one shaping our future or inspiring others to do so.