How to do it right On Monday, the day of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA), I got a message on Instagram from a journalism student who’s been following me for some time. “Is there anything good that comes out of covering what politicians wear during the SONA?” she asked.
“What can politicians do to avoid criticism during this time There’s varying commentary on whether or not the outfits of the SONA’s attendees should be covered by lifestyle sections and publications. Both sides have valid points but since what I’ve been asked for is the positive, allow me to share my two cents on the matter. First, let’s acknowledge the rising interest in Filipiniana—both modern and traditional, for formal and everyday or even casual wear—over the past decade.
Seeing this kind of representation at such a highprofile event and witnessing the myriad ways fashion can represent our culture, country, and advocacies have undoubtedly helped fuel this trend. While some might argue it’s distracting, others could contend that those previously uninterested in politics might initially be drawn by the display of skills of our local designers and weavers. This could lead them to pay attention to the President’s speech, which, despite what your algorithm might suggest, gets significantly more coverage than the fashion.
Moreover, fashion translates to jobs and income for many people. We all remember the iconic Miranda Priestly “cerulean swea.