Secretary Lazaro Leads DFA Efforts to Engage Diplomatic Corps at SONA 2025

The Diplomatic Corps, together with Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and other Cabinet Members, listens intently to the President’s Address, aided by simultaneous interpretation devices in English. (Photo Credit: Presidential Communications Office)

MANILA 31 July 2025 – Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro led the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in facilitating the participation of over 80 ambassadors and representatives from resident embassies and international organizations in the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on 28 July 2025.

Through the DFA’s Office of Protocol, the Diplomatic Corps, led by Apostolic Nuncio His Excellency Charles John Brown III, attended both the Opening Ceremony at the Senate and the President’s address at the House of Representatives, underscoring the Philippines’ strong commitment to open and constructive engagement with its foreign partners.

“This is more than just tradition,” said Secretary Lazaro. “We welcome the presence of the Diplomatic Corps at the SONA because it offers them direct insight into our government’s priorities. It also strengthens our relationships based on transparency, trust, and shared understanding.”

To ensure a smooth and dignified experience for the foreign dignitaries, the Office of Protocol coordinated every detail—from transportation and security to seating arrangements and ceremonial courtesies. The delegation traveled in dedicated buses from DFA DoubleDragon to the Senate and onward to Batasan Hills, accompanied by protocol officers and staff throughout the day.

A key enhancement this year was the provision of simultaneous interpretation devices in English, allowing non-Filipino speaking diplomats to follow the President’s address in real time. Several ambassadors expressed their appreciation for this thoughtful gesture, noting that it helped them better grasp the message and tone of the President’s speech.

“This kind of attention to detail truly reflects how the Philippines values its diplomatic partners,” said one ambassador.

The diplomats were introduced to Senate President Francis Joseph “Chiz” G. Escudero during lunch, and later welcomed at the House by the Chief of Protocol Ariel R. Peñaranda and his team, who guided them through the holding areas and to their assigned seats in the Plenary Hall.

Chief of Protocol Ariel R. Peñaranda highlighted the collaborative effort behind the scenes: “This was a true team effort across government. We are grateful to the Senate and House Protocol Offices, the Presidential Security Command, and all our partners who helped make the Diplomatic Corps feel welcome and respected.”

Secretary Lazaro added, “Diplomacy is not only about formal talks—it’s also about presence, inclusion, and mutual respect. The SONA is one of the moments when we open our national life to the world, and we are glad to share that space with our friends in the international community.” END

The attendees, including the Diplomatic Corps, listen closely to the Fourth State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, which was held at the House of Representatives. (Photo Credit: Presidential Communications Office)

The Diplomatic Corps takes part in the Opening Ceremony at the Senate, which was held in the morning of 28 July 2025. (Photo Credit: Senate of the Philippines)