All is set for President Rodrigo Duterte’s fourth State Of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22 at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.
Taking the helm of directing this annual event for the second time is rom-com director Joyce Bernal.
Bernal previously said that she wanted a ‘hopeful’ mood for SONA to be accompanied by live music or performances. The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra took the challenge of performing at the Batasang Pambansa.
In an interview with reporters Bernal said that directing Duterte’s SONA remains to be a constant challenge.
“May mga gusto ako gawin, may mga surprises na sana magawa ko,” Bernal said.
Bernal explained that there have been a number of changes in terms of production value because the President revises some parts of his speech from time to time.
When asked if Duterte has a special request, Bernal revealed that the President said he wanted to look like actor Piolo Pascual.
“Yung isang request niya mahihirapan ako. Noong nagrehearse kami sabi niya pwede mo ba kong gawing si Piolo Pascual. Sabi ko nako Mr. President mahihirapan po ako,” Bernal said.
On Sunday, the President rehearsed his speech at Malacanang. Also present on the President’s rehearsals were Senator Bong Go and Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo.
