MANILA – Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared his nation is better prepared than ever to defend its sovereignty, striking a defiant tone on maritime disputes with China during his fourth State of the Nation Address on Monday. His speech, which also launched a major anti-corruption drive, is one of several high-profile national addresses in 2025 where world leaders have outlined their responses to pressing geopolitical and domestic challenges.
Delivering his address before a joint session of Congress on July 28, President Marcos highlighted the Philippines' strengthened security alliances, which he stated position the country to meet its defense needs at a time of “grave need.” The remarks were a clear reference to escalating tensions with Beijing over contested territories in the South China Sea. The speech marked the midpoint of his six-year term, with the president using the platform to present his administration's achievements and priorities for the next three years.
On the domestic front, Marcos ordered a nationwide audit of all flood control projects following widespread damage from the recent Tropical Storm Wipha and the ongoing monsoon season. He vowed a stern crackdown on any corruption uncovered in these infrastructure initiatives, signaling a focus on government accountability.
Earlier in the year, other global leaders used similar keynote speeches to define their priorities. In the United States, President Donald Trump delivered a speech to a joint session of Congress on March 4 that, while not an official State of the Union, served to rally support for his second-term agenda. Declaring that “America is back,” Trump detailed numerous executive orders aimed at securing the nation's borders, reducing inflation, and combating what he termed the economic challenges inherited from the previous administration. He also announced funding for a new "Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield" and plans to revive American shipbuilding.
In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his State of the Nation Address on February 6 with the theme "A nation that works, for all." His speech focused on improving governance and state capacity. Ramaphosa outlined plans to bolster the role of the Public Service Commission in appointing key government officials to reinforce the management of state affairs. His address also reviewed progress on the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which aims to drive growth and stability.
From Manila's focus on sovereignty and infrastructure integrity to Washington's message of renewed national strength and Pretoria's emphasis on governance reform, the national addresses of 2025 have provided a clear window into the distinct challenges and strategies shaping nations across the globe.