Statement of Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia on tmPRRD’s SONA July 27, 2020

The SONA was comprehensive. And it was even in details as it practically enumerated the significant events, programs and projects of the Duterte administration.

It was the first SONA delivered against the backdrop of the COVID-19 crisis. It gave us a picture of the challenges the government and the nation had to face and how our people were tested to balance health and the economy. And indeed we’ve passed the test of resiliency.

This subject matter of the speech included an intimate personal appeal of the President to China for help in his intense desire to deliver our people out of the crisis. It provided some ray of hope that the vaccine can come sooner than later.

It was also informative and inspirational when he mentioned Bayanihan Act Part 2, increased testing capacity nationwide, the millions who availed of government assistance, Malasakit Centers to cater to the needy, the direction towards digitalization and elimination of physical queueing in government offices and many others.

His serious intention to make telecoms improve their service was like a light at the end of the tunnel.

Also, we are appreciative that he made special mention of the efforts and solid contributions of the LGUs in the fight against COVID-19.
A highlight of the SONA is his declaration that this crisis has brought out the best of the Filipino people.