SONA 2007

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor GUILLERMO TEJIDA III Desk Editor NANETTE L. GUADALQUIVER Busines Editor CEDELF P. TUPAS Sports Editor (On Leave) RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

If the State of the Nation can be determined by the sheer number of infrastructure projects being undertaken by an administration, then it would definitely look like the Philippines is well on its way to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s dream of becoming a first world nation in 20 years, as the first part of the SONA was dominated by an enumeration of the many projects that have been completed, as well as those still underway all over the country. In a SONA that started out like a line manager’s progress report, the Filipino nation was treated to an impressive list of projects, roads, bridges, ports and airports aimed at generating growth and progress not just in Metro Manila, but all across the countryside.

In the latter part of the speech, the President acknowledged the more pressing concerns that have continued to hound her administration. She asked Congress to act against the rash of political killings, to make stronger laws against poll violence and to fund poll watchdogs, as well as encourage election reform, especially the automation of elections.

By including these controversial topics in the much-awaited speech, the President has given us some assurance that she is aware of the gravity of these issues with regards to the lasting legacy of her administration, and at least, shows willingness to address these touchy concerns. Her language could have been stronger, and she didn’t have to pass the buck to the legislators, but including those issues in her SONA is a significant step in the right direction.