CEBU officials, including Vice Governor Glenn Soco and Mandaue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, shared their reactions to President Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (Sona), emphasizing local priorities.
Soco hoped for clearer updates on online gambling regulation and major Cebu projects like the fourth bridge and the Metro Cebu Expressway during the President’s Sona on Monday, July 28, 2025.
“Yes, I think there has to be more regulation sa atong online platform and that is, I think, one of the legislative priorities that we will undertake,” Soco stated. He noted that the Cebu Provincial Board has already passed two resolutions concerning online activities, reflecting growing local concern.
“I could really read unsay (the) sentiments sa Provincial Board,” he said. Soco emphasized that online gambling is an issue requiring attention from both national and local authorities. “Moving forward, we should really tackle that, not just the national administration,” he added.
Updates
Soco also voiced his anticipation for more Cebu-specific projects to be highlighted in the Sona, particularly updates on major infrastructure developments. “I would like to know the status of the fourth bridge [in Cebu] and the Metro Cebu Expressway,” he said.
Soco further welcomed the administration’s support for micro, small and medium enterprises and its efforts to attract
foreign investments.
He lauded the Philippines’ economic performance, noting its current rank as fourth among Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries.
“The President is in the middle of his term and there are so many things he can still do… working for the vision of our country,” Soco said.
Focus on health, education
Meanwhile, Mandaue City Mayor Ouano expressed strong support for Marcos’ emphasis on healthcare and education, stating that these priorities align with Mandaue City’s local development goals.
Ouano highlighted the importance of the President’s focus on health and education, affirming that the people deserve better and wider access to these essential services.
He particularly lauded the National Government’s move to expand PhilHealth benefits and enforce a zero-billing policy in Department of Health hospitals, calling it a significant boost for Filipinos in need.
On education, the mayor echoed the importance of investing in higher education and technical-vocational programs to ensure the country remains competitive.
“With the support of the National Government, we in Mandaue continue to work hard to help our people uplift their lives,” Ouano added. / CDF, CAV