Clarification on Budget Allocation for the 2024 State of the Nation Address

I would like to take this opportunity to clarify my recent statements regarding the budget allocated for the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA). There has been some misunderstanding about the figures mentioned, and I want to ensure that everyone has the correct information.

The amount of P20 million I referred to represents the total budget earmarked for the preparations and execution of the SONA. This figure is an estimate and has not yet been fully expended. The budget covers a range of essential expenses to ensure the event’s success, beginning from March 12, 2024, when the SONA Task Force was created.

Here are the key components, among others, included in the P20 million budget:

1. Food and Beverages: This allocation covers meals for all personnel involved, including internal staff and external personnel such as police, MMDA officers, and other support staff. This provision is not only for the actual day of the SONA but also for all preparatory activities leading up to the event.
2. Uniforms: Approximately 2,000 Secretariat employees will be provided with three sets of uniforms each, which will be used not only for the SONA but also for their day-to-day duties after event.
3. Security Expenses: Allocations for security measures, including personnel and equipment, to ensure the safety and orderliness of the event.
4. Inter-Agency Coordination Meetings: Expenses related to meetings with all departments and agencies involved in the SONA preparation to ensure seamless coordination and planning.
5. Invitations and Giveaways: Costs associated with printing and distributing invitations and providing giveaways to attendees as a token of appreciation.
6. Equipment Rental: Rental expenses for LED walls and other equipment needed to enhance the program’s audiovisual presentation and overall ambiance inside the plenary hall and within the vicinity of the Batasan Complex.
7. Potted Plants and Flowers: Decorations for the venue to ensure a welcoming and dignified atmosphere.
8. Other Incidental Expenses: These include expenses for collaterals, communication requirements, additional medical support from nearby hospitals, and other incidentals.

As Secretary General of the House of Representatives, I want to assure the public that we are committed to transparency and responsibility in spending public funds. Every peso allocated for the SONA is carefully scrutinized and managed to reflect the significance of this Constitutionally mandated event while being conscious of public sentiments regarding the use of taxpayers’ money.

Our goal is to ensure that the 2024 SONA is conducted with the highest standards, reflecting our dedication to serving the people with integrity and accountability.