Former Vice Presidents Leni Robredo and Jojo Binay will not attend the third SONA of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 22, 2024. ABS-CBN News/File 

MANILA — Former Vice Presidents Leni Robredo and Jejomar Binay will not attend the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 22.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco told reporters that the two former officials have declined the invitation.

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“Ang nag-regrets pala, si former VP Robredo, former VP Binay. Of course hindi na namin tinatanong why,” he said.

Vice President Sara Duterte and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, have yet to send their respective replies to the SONA invitation.

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“We are still waiting for confirmation from the Vice President... We are all inviting these former Presidents, former Vice Presidents, former senate presidents and former speakers. So far, we have not received confirmation from the former President Duterte,” Velasco said.

More than 2,000 guests have already confirmed their attendance to the SONA, including representatives from 47 foreign embassies in the country.

 “Almost 99 percent nag-confirm na eh. We’re just waiting for a few other offices, si Vice President, some of the Constitutional Commissions,” he added.

NO 'PROTEST' ATTIRE 

The House Secretary General reminded guests that those wearing attire with protest messages will not be allowed entry into the plenary.

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 “This is SONA. It’s not a day of protest. If you want to protest, there are areas reserved for your protest or demonstration,” Velasco said. 

“Kunwari may mukha ng isang personalty na ginawang cartoon, ‘yan ang mga bawal- anything derogatory to personalities or people of authority, bawal ‘yun. Doon palang ma-screen na pagpasok ng north and south lobby eh. We are very courteous and polite. Sasabihin na lang namin, “Sir, ma’am, baka gusto n’yo magpalit”, kasi hindi kayo makakapasok ng plenary,” he added.

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 The House of Representatives did not receive any security threat, but security will also be tight in and around the Batasan complex, according to Velasco.

 Security enhancements were incorporated in the renovations on the north and south lobby of the main building.

 "Wala naman kaming natanggap specifically against the House of Representatives. But mayroon tayong security concerns outside of the premises. Isang bilin din sa'kin ni Speaker, be prepared for anything,” Velasco said.

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