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Manila, Philippines – Senate Minority Leader Senator Alan Peter Cayetano delivered his counter-State of the Nation Address or “Counter-SONA” a day after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s fifth SONA on July 27, where he described the President as the "president of the opposition."
The senator made this remark following his defense of fellow senators facing plunder cases, namely Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta, as well as Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, who has a warrant of arrest from the International Criminal Court (ICC).
"Sabi ng Pangulo, I am president not only of my family. And it is worth [it] yung palakpak na binigay sa kaniya. But can we add, the president is also not only the president of the administration, he is also president of the opposition." Cayetano said. [The President said, I am president not only of my family. And it is worth the applause given to him. But can we add, the president is also not only the president of the administration, he is also president of the opposition.]
In his speech, Cayetano E×ρréššed doubt over the fair implementation of the law in the country because of what is happening to his colleagues.
"Respectfully, I believe that Senator Bato is fleeing unjustly. Because he cannot get justice. I believe Senator Jinggoy and Senator Marcoleta are political prisoners. And that if it wasn't weaponized, they will be able to at least go out on bail. So Mr. President, these are things that we should talk about as a Senate."
Because of this, the lawmaker reiterated that Senators Estrada and Marcoleta should be allowed to attend the ongoing impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Meanwhile, Cayetano also emphasized in his counter-SONA other problems facing the country, including the Philippines' growing debt, low wages, and the lack of regulation on ****s.
He also called for the repeal of the K-12 program and for the continuation of the investigation into the widespread flood control projects *******.
Lastly, he urged the government to work together and unite in upholding a single national vision for the country.
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Date posted: July 29, 2026 11:43 AM