Preparations are underway for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, with House officials describing the event as “simple” and “in keeping with the times.” House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil said the program will be understated, and that invited guests will receive guidance on appropriate attire. Officials indicated there will be no red carpet and asked female attendees to avoid extravagant or long gowns, while also encouraging modest clothing. Garafil said the operative word for this year’s SONA is simplicity, aiming to keep the event “simple but dignified.” The House convened an inter-agency coordination meeting to begin preparations for the address, where organizers reiterated that the invitation will specify the dress code and event arrangements. Across the reports, the House’s message focuses on reducing formality-related elements such as red-carpet presentation and more elaborate guest attire, while maintaining a formal and dignified setting for the President’s annual address.