SONA has award winner as director

MANILA, Philippines – Award-winning film director Brillante Mendoza is working pro bono on preparations for President Duterte’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA) next week.

Reacting to criticisms on social media, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar stressed yesterday that Mendoza and other talents are not paid for their outputs on the SONA.

“If you have such great talent like him who will volunteer his work, if there is anyone else who would like to contribute something to make the SONA of President Duterte a meaningful one, you are welcome,” Andanar said.

In 2009, Mendoza won the best director award at the Cannes Film Festival for the movie “Kinatay.”

He also directed the film “Ma Rosa,” an entry to the Cannes festival last May where Jaclyn Jose won the best actress award. “Ma Rosa” tackles the issues of illegal drugs and corruption in the police force.

Andanar did not say what would be discussed by Duterte in his SONA but that incoming House speaker Pantaleon Alvarez is working with Mendoza and the Presidential Communications Office on the preparations.

Mendoza earlier said he wanted to keep the SONA as simple as possible to reflect the President’s uncomplicated attitude.

Guests have also been advised to be in simple formal wear.