President Rodrigo Duterte will give his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) today. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said it will be a short speech.

These are the things to expect from ANC’s coverage today:

SONA and a war

The occasion of a President’s SONA gives us time to take stock on where we are now as a nation and where we are going. The war on drugs has claimed thousands of poor Filipinos but is scant on the big fish. The country’s human rights record has elicited widespread condemnation globally. Judging by his recent speeches, we can be assured the President will talk some more about the war on drugs. Will we hear something new or will it be more of the same? Progressive groups have given the President failing marks in protecting the people’s rights.

SONA and the economy

Will we see more of the President as a strongman in his SONA or will we hear something more substantial on the economy? A new tax program has increased inflation and prices. It was meant to fund a “golden age” of infrastructure in the country. But where are we with that? The Palace has said long-term solutions to poverty are underway. And days before the SONA, credit ratings agency Moody’s affirmed its stable outlook on the Philippines. The agency did note the uptick in inflation and the fiscal issues related to a shift to a federal form of government among other things.

China in SONA

The Duterte administration has been trying to foster better ties with China but at the cost of our claims in the South China Sea. This relationship with the fledgling superpower also threatens our fiscal standing with talks of a “debt trap.” On Sunday, the Palace said the country has shifted to a “conciliatory tack” in dealing with China on the South China Sea disputes. In short, it's a “friendlier” tone. Will the President adopt this tone in his speech?

Federal SONA

The President’s allies in Congress have passed a law on the Bangsamoro. Lawmakers are expected to ratify the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the President is expected to sign the law soon, if not today. But will this really bring peace in the south? And how will this law fit into federalism? As Vice President Leni Robredo and the critics of the President said, if changing the charter for federalism is the answer, what is the question? The draft federal constitution will also be endorsed to lawmakers, after which debates on the new constitution will commence.

Monsoon floods

Floods have been reported in Bataan, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija. Tropical Depression Josie is set to exit the Philippine area of responsibility but monsoon rains will persist and could bring more flooding. ANC will keep in touch with ABS-CBN regional units for updates on the situations in their areas.