Leni Robredo, Binay, De Castro skip Marcos' SONA

Former Vice Presidents Leni Robredo, Jejomar Binay, and Noli de Castro have declined invitations to attend President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed that both former officials will not be present at the event but did not provide reasons for their absence, while adding that De Castro's staff has informed him of his non-attendance.

Vice President Sara Duterte and former Presidents Rodrigo Duterte and Joseph Estrada have yet to confirm their attendance.

More than 2,000 guests from various sectors have already confirmed participation in the SONA, including representatives from 47 foreign embassies.

The House Secretary General reminded attendees that clothing with protest messages will not be permitted inside the plenary hall and advised those who wish to demonstrate to use designated areas outside.