Nearly all members of the Senate minority skipped President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address, citing concerns over shrinking democratic space, prosecution of critics, corruption issues, and declining public trust in government.
Minority senators Alan Peter Cayetano, Imee Marcos, Pia Cayetano, and Loren Legarda wore black during the Senate opening session before deciding not to attend the SONA, while Malacañang dismissed the boycott as insignificant.
Large protest actions accompanied the SONA, with thousands of demonstrators gathering near the Batasang Pambansa and other areas to denounce corruption, rising prices, economic hardships, and controversial government projects.
Various labor, farmer, youth, and civil society groups joined the protests and renewed calls for salary increases, education reforms, anti-corruption measures, and protection of communities and the environment.
Police arrested at least 51 individuals during the demonstrations for alleged violations of laws and local ordinances, and authorities said investigations were ongoing.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 28, 2026
