The State of the Nation Address (SONA) is typically a solemn occasion where the nation eagerly awaits the president’s updates on the country’s progress and challenges. However, this year’s SONA took a surprising turn, transforming into an unexpected cosplay extravaganza that had netizens talking.
President Bongbong Marcos Jr.’s second SONA was anticipated to be a serious affair, but it quickly became a feast for the eyes as lawmakers seemingly dressed to impress in elaborate outfits. Senator Imee Marcos, the president’s older sister, caught netizens’ attention with her flamboyant ensemble, leading some to humorously label the event as a “costume party” for her and Vice President Sara Duterte.
Netizens couldn’t help but chime in, with Deejey Writes posting on social media, “Bakit ginagawang costume party ni SWOH at Imee ang SONA?”, teasingly referring to Vice President Sara Duterte as SWOH, a playful abbreviation of Sara without H. The witty comment added a touch of humor to an otherwise serious event, as netizens poked fun at the lawmakers’ attire.
However, the moment that garnered the most attention and fueled speculation was when President Marcos Jr. skipped shaking hands with Vice President Sara Duterte during the event. This particular gesture, or lack thereof, did not go unnoticed by the prying eyes of critical netizens.
Rappler reported the amusing incident, noting that President Marcos Jr. greeted former presidents but seemed to overlook shaking hands with his own Vice President. The social media grapevine was quick to come up with tongue-in-cheek explanations, hilariously speculating that the Vice President’s traditional Maguindanaon dress might have momentarily disguised her identity.
Charot (@IamCharotism) playfully added her own twist, quipping, “Wait, si VP Sara Duterte pala katabi ni First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. Akala ko si Juliana Parizcova Segovia. Charot!” The comment tickled netizens’ funny bones, as they chuckled at the cheeky comparison.
The SONA might have been intended to address the nation’s pressing matters, but the unexpected cosplay event and the handshake snub stole the show in the digital realm. Netizens had a field day, celebrating the lighter moments amidst the weighty speeches and political formalities.
As the dust settles from SONA 2023, it is clear that Filipinos possess a unique ability to find humor and amusement in any situation. The event might have been filled with political gravity, but the playful commentary and witty observations reminded the nation that laughter can be found even in the most serious of gatherings.
SONA 2023 will be remembered not only for the crucial matters it addressed but also for the unforgettable cosplay-inspired outfits and the light-hearted handshake moment that left netizens amused. In the end, the Filipino spirit of finding joy in the midst of challenges prevails, leaving a smile on the faces of those who witnessed the SONA unfold in all its quirky glory.
The Daily Netizen 