In the regions, Sona draw calls for reforms, better governance
BAGUIO CITY—Protesters, advocacy groups, fisherfolk and ordinary citizens across the country marked President Marcos’ fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Monday with calls for government accountability, higher wages, environmental protection and stronger support for marginalized sectors.
In Baguio City, militant youth artists erected and later destroyed an effigy of Uncle Sam being fed Philippine resources by a figure wearing a Mr. Marcos mask during the People’s Sona at Malcolm Square. Protesters denounced corruption, political dynasties, foreign influence and the exploitation of natural resources.
Geraldine Cacho of Tongtongan ti Umili said Cordillera communities have lost control of ancestral lands to mining firms, while vegetable farmers continue to suffer from rock-bottom prices and rising fuel costs. The Baguio City Ecumenical Council said public office is a “sacred trust” and urged greater accountability.
In Cagayan Valley, residents hoped for expanded social services, more infrastructure and stronger flood control projects. Buguey Mayor Licerio Antiporda III reiterated his support for the administration, particularly its food security program.
In Zambales, fisherfolk joined a Manila protest urging the government to pursue diplomatic solutions to tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Pamalakaya called for the removal of foreign military forces from exclusive economic zone.
E-waste
The Environmental Task Force Against Illegal E-Waste Imports to the Philippines also renewed its call to stop imported electronic waste and warned that the proposed Pax Silica initiative could increase e-waste imports.
In Oriental Mindoro, fisherfolk and environmental groups urged Congress to pass the proposed Verde Island Passage Protected Seascape Bill, provide full compensation to victims of the MT Princess Empress oil spill and strengthen protections for municipal fishers through the proposed “Atin ang Kinse Bill.”
Militant groups in Legazpi and Naga cities criticized the Marcos administration over alleged corruption and rising poverty.
About 2,000 protesters in Bacolod City joined a rally demanding accountability, an end to corruption, stable jobs and living wages.
In Iloilo City, Mayor Raisa Treñas expressed hope the President would announce measures to address rising fuel prices, strengthen flood control, expand social welfare programs and sustain national government support for local development.
Mindanao rallies
In Mindanao, only Davao City and General Santos City saw Sona-related protests on Monday, while no rallies were reported in other major cities.
In Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur, public school teachers staged a symbolic protest calling for higher salaries and an end to corruption.
Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Parliament member Ishak Mastura welcomed the President’s mention of petroleum service contracts in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindana0, while Cotabato City resident Celia Lim supported Mr. Marcos’ plan to stop passing power system loss charges on to consumers.
Members of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers also staged symbolic protests in public schools across Zamboanga del Sur, calling for higher salaries and reforms in the education sector. —REPORTS FROM KIMBERLIE QUITASOL, VILLAMOR VISAYA JR., JOANNA ROSE AGLIBOT, MADONNA T. VIROLA, MICHAEL B. JAUCIAN, CARLA P. GOMEZ, IAN PAUL CORDERO, CONG CORRALES, EDWIN FERNANDEZ, AMIEL CAGAYAN, LEAH AGONOY, CHRIS PANGANIBAN AND BONG SARMIENTO
