Manila, July 21 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) to remain simple as the country faces global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and rising oil prices, Malacanang said Tuesday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President himself prefers a modest program for the July 27 address.

"'Yan po talaga ang plano at 'yan din po ang gusto ng Pangulo (That has always been the plan, and that is what the President wants)," Castro said when asked whether the President opted for a more austere SONA in light of prevailing issues affecting the country.

She said the program will not feature celebrity directors or performances, in keeping with the President's dire...