Manila, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles) – As a public service to our readers and followers, The Adobo Chronicles is highlighting key points of President NoyNoy Aquino’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) last Monday. We are quoting Aquino’s message in its official English translation and have decided to interpret them through photographs:

On Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda)

“Your government wasted no time in responding. We immediately cleared the airport, which is why, within 24 hours after the storm, three C130s were able to bring in aid. On that same day, we were also able to set up a communications hub to hasten the flow of information. On the second day, the Department of Health’s Rapid Health Assessment teams arrived, as well as additional soldiers, policemen, and BFP personnel from other provinces. Likewise, workers from DSWD lead relief operations—in the distribution centers in Eastern Visayas or in repacking centers all around the country.”

On Poverty

 “We are investing in our most valuable resource: The Filipino people. Data from the National Economic Development Authority attests to our success. According to them, the 27.9 percent poverty rate during the first semester of 2012 went down to 24.9 percent for the same period in 2013. These three percentage points are equivalent to 2.5 million Filipinos who have crossed the poverty line.”

On Classroom Shortage: “The inherited backlog in books, chairs, and classrooms: erased; while we are working to fulfill the new needs brought about by the implementation of K to 12.” Students “no longer have to study in overcrowded classrooms.”

On Government Spending of Taxpayer Money: “In addition to the national integrity we have restored is the world’s recognition of a new Philippines. The nation’s coffers, which come from the sweat of our citizens, are being spent only for their benefit.”

On Disaster Preparedness and Modern Forecasting System:  “Let us remember: God proposes, but man disposes. This is likewise the idea behind our efforts for disaster preparedness. We are strengthening the capabilities of our LGUs, (Local Government Units) who are the frontliners in times of disasters, through a modern and comprehensive forecasting system. “