SENATOR  Alan Peter Cayetano praised the President’s “blunt honesty” in his SONA, particularly in acknowledging the country’s persistent issues in education, healthcare, and governance.

“Unang-una, I like the tone. Y’ung blunt honesty. Noong araw, magyayabang ka sa SONA. Pero ngayon he was honest enough to say na yung mga proyektong ganyan, palpak,” Cayetano said.

He expressed optimism over the President’s renewed focus on education and learning recovery during the final stretch of his term. However, Cayetano cautioned the public not to rely on promises alone—particularly on the proposed zero-balance billing program in public hospitals, which he said faces implementation hurdles due to unresolved disputes between PhilHealth and hospitals over coverage of services.

Cayetano has filed key legislative measures aimed at long-term improvements in education and health. These include the proposed creation of the Third Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM III) and the Makakapagtapos Ako Act of 2025, which seeks to eliminate financial barriers that prevent Filipinos from completing their education.