VP Sara to skip Marcos’ SONA | The wRap

Here are today’s headlines – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:

• Designated survivor? Sara Duterte to skip Marcos’ 3rd SONA

Vice President Sara Duterte says she will not attend President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address. She appoints herself as the ‘designated survivor’ although there is no such designation in the Philippine government.

• Is shelling out P20 million for SONA too much?

Preparations for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 3rd State of the Nation Address or SONA are in full swing at the Batasang Pambansa, with the government spending 20 million pesos for the program.

• Bodies trapped in Gaza City under Israeli assault as mediators push for truce

An intense Israeli assault leaves Gaza City residents trapped in houses and bodies lay uncollected on the streets. This, despite the U.S. pushing for a peace deal in Egypt and Qatar.

• Biden allies Pelosi, Clooney raise fresh doubts about his reelection chance

Hollywood actor George Clooney and former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi are the latest allies of President Joe Biden to raise concerns about his reelection chances.

• Palarong Pambansa 2024 kicks off with new records in athletics, swimming

Athletics and swimming take the center stage at Palarong Pambansa’s medal events Thursday, July 11. There are new records in boys elementary long jump and in swimming. – Rappler.com