Marcos Jr. oversees fourth Sona prep amid US visit

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is personally overseeing the preparation for his fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) set for July 28, with the possibility of including issues related to trade with the US.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin noted that Mr. Marcos has been deeply involved in writing his speech and collecting materials for the address, emphasizing its importance as a platform to communicate with the Filipino people.

While the President is currently in Washington from July 20 to 22 for an official visit, three Cabinet officials will act as caretakers of the government during his absence.

Mr. Bersamin also reiterated that the President's policy banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) remains unchanged since its announcement a year ago, though other forms of online gaming not linked to scams or fraud are still under review.

Asked if developments involving his US visit would be included in the Sona report, Mr. Bersamin said it could be addressed if there are significant developments worth mentioning.