SONA 2008 (in Philippines)

It’s that time of the political world again, wherein the president will state the status of the country under his/her regime and developments to improve cost of living for a country’s inhabitants.

State of the Nation Address (SONA) is always looked upon by most as a time to stop work and listen to the President’s speech. I remember when everyone in the ad agency left their work on their desks and clumped around the television set (even the one IN our president’s office, which he didn’t seem to mind because he was also watching). The SONA takes second place after Manny Pacquiao’s fights to take such effect in the office setting. The SONA takes on various effect though as to everyone has different reasons to watching. I, for one, remember, didn’t join in clumping around the TV set. I was content in listening from my desk as I am among those who does not believe anything the SONA states. Why? I may not be politically correct as I do not indulge myself too much with the ways of the government, but I do know as everyone feels that the way of living in this 3rd world country is getting steeper and steeper making it far from any improvements in the short-term future.

I asked a couple of people yesterday if they are too watch or listen to the SONA later. It could be because I was in a mix of similar thinking people but it seemed they all took on a similar negative reaction.

Manonood ba ako eh totoo naman kaya sinasabi nila don? Maririnig at maririnig ko rin naman ang nilalaman ng SONA sa ibang tao. Baka magaksaya pa ako ng oras sa kakakinig pa diyan.

(Translation: Why do I have to watch that SONA? Do you think everything the SONA states is true? I will definitely hear about it from other people so there’s no need for me to listen to it anymore. I will just waste my time.)

Heartless? I don’t think so. I think I understand why they would think that way as I share the same sentiment. Time and again promises made by the government didn’t come true and it is no secret this country (the Philippines) is known for its Corrupt nature in the whole world. Will we believe a government that will seem to forever just look out for themselves and fill their pockets with money from the populace? Are we forever to be in such predicament? Will there be no hope for the Filipinos to lead a better life especially for its masses?

It is no wonder a lot are now not so interested to hear the SONA. I admit I may not listen to it later in the office as we tend to have too many tasks to keep our minds busy. I’d rather make a living that to listen to something that may not hold true to its contents and promises.

Despite the rainy season and the possible of a typhoon later on, it’s all systems go for the SONA later in Batasan Pambansa. There is no doubt too, that any school near that area will be closed down for the protest marches that will happen again and 1,200 policemen dispatched for security. It seems such scenario is already expected and the never ending dance of tango between the government and activists will always be a part of the SONA. Yet, nothing really happens.

What’s your take on the SONA?