Congressmen Caught Watching Unrelated Videos During House Session
ONLINE SABONG x BILLIARDS – Two congressmen sparked public outrage after they were caught watching unrelated videos on their phones during a voting session in the House of Representatives, held just hours before President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) in 2025.
One lawmaker was seen watching an online cockfighting match (e-sabong), while another was watching a billiards game. The video quickly spread online, raising concerns about whether they were taking their responsibilities seriously.
Veteran broadcaster Arnold Clavio called them out on social media with a sharp message: “Ehem: Mahiya naman kayo!!!” His post struck a chord with the public and was shared by well-known figures such as Wendell Ramos, Candy Pangilinan, and Kate Valdez, all expressing their disappointment.
In his SONA, President Marcos addressed key national concerns such as public safety, food supply, education, and disaster preparedness. He promised ₱20-per-kilo rice through Kadiwa stores, the construction of new classrooms, better pay and equipment for teachers, and stronger systems for disaster warnings and evacuation centers. While many welcomed these plans, some criticized him for not addressing several other pressing issues.
He did not mention the failed impeachment attempt against Vice President Sara Duterte, the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) into former President Rodrigo Duterte, or the rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Other skipped topics included wage increases, labor rights, the SOGIE Bill, the divorce bill, and efforts to fix election-related problems.
On the online sabong controversy, Marcos briefly said the government is still working to resolve the case of the missing sabungeros, who disappeared in 2021. Authorities believe they were victims of cheating and illegal e-sabong operations. A whistleblower claimed they were killed and dumped in Taal Lake. As of July 29, 12 police officers are facing administrative charges for misconduct and unprofessional behavior related to the case.