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Education as a National Priority: Insights from President Marcos Jr.’s 2025 SONA
A relevant example of contemporary political rhetoric on education in the Philippines can be found in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), delivered on July 28, 2025. He emphasized that education is a national priority, allocating nearly 20% of the national budget to the sector. The President highlighted reforms in teacher education to address learning loss and prepare educators for the challenges of 21st-century learning.
While the rhetoric underscores a strong commitment to education, it lacks specific and actionable plans. Issues such as overcrowded classrooms, outdated learning resources, and the digital divide remain unaddressed. Furthermore, there is limited discussion on ensuring equitable access for marginalized communities.
In essence, the 2025 SONA presents positive intentions but limited substance. For real progress, the government must move beyond broad promises and outline clear, inclusive strategies that strengthen teacher support, digital infrastructure, and access to quality education for all learners.
Source: Inquirer Opinion (2025). “Marcos Jr. 2025 SONA: Education as a National Priority.”
The discussion on President Marcos Jr's SONA offers an insightful look at how political rhetoric can highlight priorities without fully addressing systematic issues. The emphasis on educational as national priority and budget allocation signals a positive direction, yet the critique rightly points out the lack of concrete measures to resolve long-standing problems such overcrowding, resource shortages, and inequality.
I agree that while allocating a large portion of the budget shows commitment, real progress requires clear strategies, particularly in addressing long-standing issues like inequality, infrastructure, and teacher support. Overall, your reflection demonstrates critical awareness of how political promises must translate into practical, inclusive educational reforms to truly make an impact.