As they await President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.'s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, 2024, residents of Batangas share what they hope to hear from the President’s speech. 

The SONA highlights accomplishments and outlines the direction the government will take for the future. It also serves as a receipt for citizens to hold their leader accountable for promises made.

"Ang titingnan natin d'yan, o, eto ngayon 'yung pinangako mo nu'ng nangampanya ka. Sa unang SONA mo, ano na 'yung naging hakbang, sa pangalawang SONA mo, ano na 'yung nangyari?" Abvic Ryan Maghirang, a political science professor, said.

Key sectors such as agriculture, labor, and education are focused on the President's address.

Lorenzo Catacutan, Chairman of the Southern Luzon Farmers and Traders (SOLUFAT), hopes the President will discuss food security and expand farm-to-table initiatives.

"Kapag ang pagkain ay ang tinamaan at ang pagtaas niyan, malaki ang impact nito sa ating mga kababayan," Catacutan said.

The Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) is looking for answers regarding salary increases, addressing school shortages, and curriculum improvements.

"'Yung across the board na P15,000, noh? On top of the SSL, kumbaga, would complement our salaries," Benjo Basas, TDC's national chairperson, said.

Labor groups are also keen on hearing about the wage bill currently in Congress.

"Gusto namin i-certify as urgent na kaagad ni Pangulong Bongbong 'yung wage bill, 'yung 750 plus, 'yun 'yung tindig namin eh," Ely Guzman, General Secretary of the Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino - Southern Tagalog, said.

For ordinary Filipinos, the expectations are clear and practical. 

Benjie Estilloso, a market vendor, wants the President to fulfill his promise of lowering the prices of rice and other commodities.

"'Yung sinabi niyang pababain 'yung bigas, mga bilihin dapat tuparin nila," Estilloso said.

Beth Briones, a health worker, feels satisfied with the current administration's gradual fulfillment of its promises. 

"Wala naman na eh, kasi para sa akin sapat na ang ginagawa niya... unti-unti nang natutupad na eh," she said.

Arce Baynosa, a businessman, is concerned about the rising costs of daily necessities such as rice, sugar, oil, and transportation.

"Pang daily needs, kasi tumataas talaga siya, lalo nanang bigas, asukal, mantika, pamasahe," Baynosa said.