House Ditches Red Carpet and Glamour for Marcos' Sona 2025

The House of Representatives has decided to scrap red carpet ceremonies, fashion coverage, and photo ops for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 28. This move aims to show solidarity with communities impacted by recent typhoons. According to a memorandum signed by House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco, adjustments have been made for the opening of the 20th Congress and Marcos' Sona at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. The red carpet will now be limited to ingress and official protocol, with staged ceremonies, fashion coverage, and photo setups no longer permitted. However, members may still be interviewed by reporters. The memorandum emphasized that these changes demonstrate solidarity with affected communities and a commitment to uphold the dignity of the national gathering.

Senator Bato dela Rosa stated that he does not expect anything from the government and has no plans to attend Sona. Formal attire is still required for attendees of Marcos' speech, with traditional wear like the barong or Filipiniana recommended. Members are advised to avoid extravagant displays and use discretion in their wardrobe choices. Senate President Chiz Escudero has also instructed the removal of the red carpet in the Senate during the opening of the 20th Congress. This decision comes after lawmakers called for a toned-down Sona to show respect for Filipinos affected by recent flooding due to typhoons and the southwest monsoon.

According to the source: Cebu Daily News.