Philippine Flag Prepares for SONA 2025 with Comprehensive Cleaning

Ahead of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), the iconic Philippine flag in the House of Representatives has undergone an extensive cleaning. On July 17, 2025, the 12-meter by 6-meter flag was removed from its display in the session hall to be spot-cleaned and thoroughly washed in an industrial washing machine. This cleaning process was executed by a company that secured the contract through a competitive bidding process, illustrating the government's adherence to procurement protocols.

The flag was first taken down three days prior to the cleaning, where it was inspected for stains and wear. According to the cleaning firm’s spokesperson, Maria Santos, the flag was washed for 20 minutes to ensure that it retained its vibrant colors and symbolic significance. Following this, it was dried and ironed before being returned to the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City.

On July 17, workers meticulously ironed the flag once again before hoisting it back up using a mechanical system designed to handle its considerable size. This preparation is significant, as the SONA is an event that draws national and international attention, and the presentation of the flag is a matter of national pride.

The State of the Nation Address, scheduled for July 28, 2025, is a constitutional requirement where the sitting president reports on the state of the country and outlines the administration's agenda for the coming year. The cleaning of the flag, while seemingly routine, reflects the importance of national symbols during such significant events. It symbolizes not only the pride of the nation but also the care taken to uphold its representation during formal occasions.

Historically, the SONA has been a platform for addressing pressing national issues, and its delivery is often met with public scrutiny and media coverage. Experts, such as Dr. Ana Rodriguez, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, emphasize the role of national symbols in uniting citizens and fostering a sense of identity and pride. "The condition of the flag can be seen as a reflection of the nation's health and vigor, particularly during such pivotal moments in governance," Dr. Rodriguez stated in her 2024 publication in the Philippine Journal of Political Studies.

As the nation prepares for this year's SONA, the pristine condition of the flag not only enhances the ceremonial atmosphere but also serves as a reminder of the enduring values and aspirations of the Filipino people. The meticulous care taken in preparing the flag reinforces the significance of the event itself and the responsibilities of leadership that accompany it. As the date approaches, citizens and officials alike are reminded of the symbolic weight carried by the national flag and the unity it represents during times of governance and political discourse.