As President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. prepares for his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24, 2024, various lobbying interests have emerged, reflecting a wide range of socio-economic, environmental, and political concerns. This article summarizes the key lobbying efforts and interests that are expected to shape the discourse of the upcoming SONA, as informed by multiple sources.

The business community has outlined a comprehensive agenda, advocating for the passage of 21 key bills that are seen as crucial for economic growth and stability. According to some reports, these legislative measures include reforms in taxation, digital transformation, and infrastructure development, among others. These initiatives aim to foster a more competitive business environment and attract foreign investments, which are vital for the Philippines’ economic recovery and growth.

In a related context, the Philippine News Agency highlights the government’s achievements and future goals as articulated by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin. Key priorities include infrastructure projects under the “Build, Better, more” program, efforts to ensure food security, and initiatives to improve the healthcare system. These priorities underscore the administration’s focus on nation-building and uplifting the lives of Filipinos.

Environmental concerns are at the forefront of lobbying interests, especially with the increasing impacts of climate change. Environmental advocates are pressing the administration to address critical issues such as biodiversity loss, deforestation, and pollution. The administration’s track record on environmental protection and climate action has been mixed, and there is a strong push for more robust policies and concrete actions.

The Makakalikasan – Nature Party Philippines recently conducted its ESTADO ng KALIKASAN at LIPUNAN 2024 Report last July 13, part of its Greening the SONA 2024 Campaign. This report included an All-Greens Unity Meeting, where 11 Green groups in the country discussed political green solidarity in preparation for the May 2024 elections. This gathering underscore the growing political mobilization around environmental issues and the importance of unified action in advocating for sustainable development.

Another event highlighting environmental issues is the “State of the Philippine Environment 2024” organized by the Center for Environmental Concerns – Philippines (CEC) in collaboration with IBON Foundation. The event tackle pressing environmental issues across different ecosystems, from upland to marine, and their socio-economic impacts on local communities. Core issues such as charter change, militarization, and attacks on environmental defenders were likewise included.

The Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC) is set to hold its annual State of the People Address (SOPA) as a counterpoint to the official SONA today, July 17. The SOPA will present an alternative view of the national situation from the perspective of civil society groups and social formations. It will highlight issues such as the rising public debt, national security threats, the state of the agriculture sector, energy transition challenges, and the plight of the labor sector. The SOPA aims to consolidate the immediate demands and needs of various sectors, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.

There are calls for significant legislative changes, including the potential ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Senators have expressed hopes that President Marcos will announce such a ban during his SONA, citing concerns over the social and economic implications of the industry . This issue reflects broader concerns about regulatory oversight and the need for policies that protect the welfare of Filipino citizens.

Much earlier last June 29 various labor and workers group laid down their demands for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ahead of the SONA2024. Partido Lakas ng Masa (PLM) chairman Leody de Guzman, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino (BMP) president and lawyer Luke Espiritu, Asian Peoples’ Movement on Debt and Development (APMDD) senior and other advocacy group leaders came together to call for the implementation of wealth tax and a P750 legislated daily wage increase.

Lates in anticipation of the SONA, The Agenda media forum scheduled for July 19, 2024,Friday at the Club Pilipino will focus on whether environmental actions will receive due attention in the President’s address. This forum is particularly timely given concerns that President Marcos might highlight controversial issues perceived as anti-environment, such as reclamation projects, waste-to-energy systems, natural gas as a transition energy source, and nuclear energy development. These topics are expected to be hotly debated, reflecting the tensions between economic development and environmental sustainability.

The upcoming SONA 2024 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set against a backdrop of diverse lobbying interests, ranging from business and economic reforms to environmental and socio-political advocacy. The various stakeholders, including business groups, environmental advocates, and civil society organizations, are keenly watching how the administration will address their concerns and priorities. As the nation awaits the President’s address, the key question remains: will the administration balance these competing interests and chart a course towards inclusive and sustainable development?

As we approach the SONA, it is crucial to remain engaged and informed about the diverse issues at play. The outcomes of this address will significantly impact the country’s trajectory, influencing policies and actions that will shape the future of the Philippines.