QUEZON CITY — In his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. once again placed technology and innovation at the center of his administration's development agenda, highlighting efforts in education, industry, and infrastructure. While the initiatives earned praise from some sectors, others raised concerns about implementation gaps, digital inequality, and long-standing structural issues.

Education Technology Push

The President emphasized his administration's goal to provide internet access to all public schools by the end of 2025, with accompanying support such as smart TVs, Bayanihan SIM cards with free load, and laptops for teachers. He also pledged to digitize administrative tasks to reduce teacher workloads.

Critics, however, noted that similar promises were made in previous SONAs, yet many remote schools still suffer from poor signal or lack access altogether. Teacher groups also questioned the quality and durability of government-procured laptops, urging transparency and better consultation with educators.

Tech-Led Industry Development

Marcos outlined plans to diversify the economy through investments in high-tech industries, including electronics, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and critical minerals. The administration aims to position the Philippines as a hub for innovation and attract both local and international investors.

While economists welcomed the ambition, some warned that the country's limited research output, low R&D funding, and persistent brain drain may hinder the sustainability of such goals. Others urged stronger protection of labor rights in tech-related manufacturing zones to ensure inclusive growth.

Infrastructure, Energy, and Scientific Innovation

The President also announced the construction of 200 power plants over the next three years, including solar and renewable energy facilities. He reiterated support for the National Fiber Backbone and satellite initiatives to improve nationwide internet connectivity.

In the agricultural sector, the administration is tasking the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) with developing modern farming technologies such as intercropping, off-season planting, and climate-resilient systems.

However, analysts pointed out that large-scale infrastructure announcements in previous SONAs have often faced delays in procurement, environmental impact assessments, and local opposition. The broadband rollout, for instance, has missed several targets since its 2022 launch.

Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders

Technology advocacy groups welcomed the continuity of the administration's digitalization agenda, particularly the focus on education and scientific research.

Civil society organizations, however, called for greater attention to digital inequality, noting that many marginalized communities still lack basic access to electricity or stable mobile signals.

Meanwhile, legislators from both majority and minority blocs urged the administration to submit clearer timelines and accountability frameworks, especially for large-scale infrastructure and digital learning initiatives.

A Promising Vision, But Execution Remains Key

President Marcos Jr.'s 2025 SONA underscores a consistent theme in his administration's messaging: technology is central to national progress. From public education to digital industry and energy resilience, the roadmap laid out is undeniably ambitious.

However, the true measure of progress lies in how effectively these promises are implemented, particularly for underserved and vulnerable sectors. Observers note that the success of these initiatives will depend not just on funding and infrastructure, but also on follow-through, transparency, and inclusive policymaking.

Editor's note:

It is no secret that the Philippines is left behind when it comes to innovation. It is time that the nation move forward in the field of technology.