BACOLOD City – Bacolod City officials expressed satisfaction with the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., citing its focus on accountability, public services, and reforms that they said would directly benefit Filipinos.
House Deputy Speaker and Bacolod Lone District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said the President addressed key national concerns whose impact would be felt by families and communities.
“The highest impact will be felt by families and individuals in the city and the community,” Benitez said.
He also commended the President’s decision to pursue legal action against those allegedly involved in the flood control controversy, including his cousin, Rep. Martin Romualdez.
“I don’t know of any President who has been willing to send friends as well as relatives to jail,” Benitez said, adding that he gave the President’s address a “very high rating.”
“His SONA is one of those with the greatest impact on the Filipino people,” he added.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the President’s priorities are aligned with Bacolod City’s HEART Agenda, particularly in public healthcare, education, environmental protection, digitalization, sports development, and workforce upskilling.
He said the city’s initiatives, including its Waste-to-Energy project and waterway rehabilitation, complement the national government’s efforts to promote sustainability and resilience.
Gasataya also welcomed the President’s call to amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), particularly the proposal to prohibit the pass-on of system loss charges and value-added tax (VAT) to consumers.
He said the measure would help lower electricity costs and ease the financial burden on Filipino households.
The mayor likewise welcomed the administration’s recognition of local government units as active partners in nation-building.
“We remain committed to doing our part and working stronger together to translate these national goals into realities felt by each and every Bacolodnon,” he said.
Councilor Al Victor Espino described the President’s announcement on the prosecution of those implicated in the flood control controversy as the highlight of the speech.
“That was the most significant part of the President’s speech. He made it clear that he is not the President of his family but the President of the Filipino people,” Espino said.
He also lauded the administration’s programs and infrastructure projects implemented across the country.
Councilor Caesar Distrito likewise praised the President for delivering a comprehensive address and for directly tackling the flood control issue despite its connection to one of his relatives.
“It was an extraordinary effort on his part and an emotional one, considering that it involved his cousin,” Distrito said.
Councilor Jason Villarosa also expressed satisfaction with the President’s speech, saying it addressed the major concerns of Filipinos while highlighting the administration’s accomplishments, including projects that have benefited Bacolod City. (WDJ)/PN
