Romualdez: SONA a crucial moment for unity

House Speaker Martin Romualdez stated that while it is a public official's "prerogative" to skip events, the State of the Nation Address (SONA) is a crucial moment for unity and collaboration among national leaders.

This statement comes after Vice President Sara Duterte announced she will be skipping President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s upcoming SONA.

Romualdez emphasized that the SONA is a time to reflect on progress, address challenges, and outline the nation's future vision, urging leaders to show unity for the collective good.

He added that the House of Representatives remains committed to collaborating with all government branches to ensure the SONA reflects collective efforts to improve Filipinos' lives.

Manila Representative Joel Chua commented that Duterte's self-appointment as "designated survivor" is inappropriate given current political tensions.