MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the immediate suspension of all State of the Nation Address (SONA)-related preparations following reports that government personnel were setting up materials in public areas while several communities face heavy flooding.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin issued the directive Tuesday, noting the president’s “disappointment” over the reports.

“The President is dismayed by reports that government personnel are putting up SONA-related materials in public areas while many communities are battling heavy flooding,” Bersamin said in a statement.

“Let me be clear: all SONA-related preparations are hereby ordered immediately suspended. The Department of Public Works and Highways, along with all concerned agencies, must put full attention and exclusive focus on flood response and relief operations,” he added.

Bersamin stressed that the President’s priority is the safety and welfare of the Filipino people, especially during times of crisis.

“All government agencies are expected to act accordingly,” he said.