SOME top politicians in Negros Occidental gave President Rodrigo Duterte an above passing rate of 7 to 8 as he delivered his final State of the Nation Address (Sona) Monday, July 26, 2021.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson gave Duterte's performance a grade of "8," pointing out that it is indeed difficult to address the problems brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, especially on the country's economy.

Lacson recalled that 2019, under Duterte's presidency, has been a good year for the country, but the gains the country had made were affected due to the worldwide pandemic.

Cadiz City Mayor and United Negros Alliance (Unega) secretary-general Salvador Escalante Jr., meanwhile, hoped Duterte would tone down his profane language.

“Last time daw mga 37 to ka pamuyayaw (Last time, I counted 37 profane words),” Escalante said.

Escalante gave Duterte a grade of "7 and a half," although he pointed out that this is "abnormal times" and it would be very difficult to compare him to past presidents.

Escalante also praised some of Duterte's works such as providing free Covid-19 vaccines and providing 13th month ERA for the local government units.

Former Third District congressman and prospective Bacolod City mayoralty candidate Alfredo "Albee" Benitez, meanwhile, also gave Duterte a grading of "7 or 8."

"He has a lot of achievements," Benitez said.

Benitez recalled some of Duterte's achievements such as the Universal Healthcare Program, and Free Tertiary Education.

"Those are landmark achievements that give benefits to the people," Benitez added.