Bishop Criticizes Philippine President’s State of the Nation Address as ‘a Disappointment’

Bishop Ruperto Santos of Antipolo, whose diocese serves one of the country's largest Catholic populations east of Metro Manila in the Philippines, has criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), saying it failed to answer the concerns of Filipinos seeking accountability, justice, and hope.

In a pastoral reflection issued after the president's annual address to Congress, Bishop Santos described the SONA as "a disappointment, a disgrace, and a disservice."

"It was a disappointment because many had hoped to hear a clear and forthright response to unresolved questions that continue to trouble the public conscience," the bishop said.

President Marcos' address outlined his administration's efforts to combat corruption, including investigations into alleged ghost projects and the recovery of ₱25 billion in ill-gotten assets, with ₱800 million returned to the National Treasury.

He also declared a State of National Energy Emergency in response to tensions in the Middle East, announcing measures to secure fuel supplies, suspend excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene, and require refunds for electricity overcharges.

The president further announced tax relief measures, including raising the tax-exempt income threshold to ₱350,000, introducing a one-time tax abatement program for small businesses, and expanding rice subsidy programs benefiting millions of Filipino families.

Despite these initiatives, Bishop Santos said the address did not sufficiently respond to issues that continue to concern the public.

"It was a disgrace, not as a judgment on any individual, but because public office is a sacred trust," he said, emphasizing that leadership carries a moral responsibility to serve the people with honesty and integrity.

Quoting the Gospel of Luke, the bishop reminded public officials that "much will be required of the person entrusted with much" (Luke 12:48), calling on leaders to exercise their authority with humility, accountability, and a commitment to the common good.

He also urged Filipinos not to lose hope despite political challenges.

The pastoral reflection concluded with an appeal for prayer, vigilance, and unity, encouraging citizens to remain actively engaged in building a nation founded on truth, justice, and respect for human dignity.

The State of the Nation Address is delivered annually by the Philippine president before a joint session of Congress to report on the government's accomplishments and outline priorities for the coming year. This year's address has drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, civil society groups, and Church representatives.