House of Representatives Scales Down SONA Red Carpet Amidst Disaster Solidarity

MANILA ⁢ – In a meaningful shift reflecting national⁢ solidarity with disaster-affected communities,the House of Representatives has announced the removal of traditional red carpet setups at its North and South Lobbies ahead of President Ferdinand R. Marcos jr.’s 4th State ⁤of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, 2025.

House spokesperson Princess Abante confirmed the⁢ decision on Friday, stating that only the red carpets at the main Session Hall entrance and the Rear Entrance will remain. The move signifies a commitment to uphold‍ the solemnity and dignity of the national⁣ event, particularly considering recent calamities impacting various regions of the country.

Solidarity ⁢and Solemnity Drive SONA Adjustments

The directive to scale down red carpet activities originated from Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who requested a more subdued approach to this yearS SONA. This request was formally⁢ outlined in a memorandum issued by House Secretary General Reginald Velasco to ‍all members of the chamber on ⁤July 25, 2025.

“In view of‍ the recent calamities affecting several regions of the country,‍ the following adjustments ⁣will be implemented for the Opening of ‍the 20th Congress and the State‍ of the Nation Address on July 28, ⁢2025,” ⁣the memorandum stated.

Key Changes for the 4th SONA

The adjustments detailed in the memorandum include:

Removal of North and South Lobby⁢ Red Carpets: The elaborate red carpet displays at these⁢ key entrances ⁤have been removed.
Limited Media Interactions: Only brief doorstop interviews will be permitted, with all media interactions adhering to standard security and accreditation procedures.
No Staged Ceremonies: there will be no staged ⁢ceremonies, fashion coverage, or elaborate photo setups in the red carpet areas.
Wardrobe Discretion: While formal attire remains mandatory, members are “respectfully urged to avoid ostentatious displays” and to exercise discretion ‍in their wardrobe choices. The wearing of Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana attire remains encouraged to reflect ⁢the event’s dignity and solemnity.

“These adjustments ⁤reflect our solidarity with affected communities and our commitment to uphold the dignity of ⁤this national gathering,” Velasco emphasized‍ in the memorandum.

The decision underscores⁢ the House’s commitment to demonstrating empathy and support for citizens grappling with the aftermath of recent natural disasters, ensuring that the focus remains on the critical issues to be addressed during the President’s address.