Romualdez calls for simpler SONA amid calamities

Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has called for a toned-down State of the Nation Address (SONA) and opening of the 20th Congress, urging the removal of red carpet and ceremonial fanfare.

Romualdez cited the recent calamities, including Storms Crising, Dante, and Emong, which have displaced families and destroyed livelihoods, as reasons for the need for sobriety and sensitivity.

He believes that maintaining a display of pageantry would be out of touch while the nation is still recovering from the disasters.

Romualdez has requested the Office of the Secretary General to retain formal protocols but forgo the red carpet fanfare, fashion coverage, and ceremonial staging, emphasizing that the red carpet should serve its functional purpose.

He clarified that this change would not restrict media access to members of Congress, who can still speak with reporters as customary.

Romualdez stated that the intention is to set a tone that is focused, grounded, and responsive to the needs of the people.