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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Special handbag makes Congresswoman Matibag's SONA outfit simple, dignified, and meaningful

Special handbag makes Congresswoman Matibag's SONA outfit simple, dignified, and meaningful

Published Jul 27, 2026 04:33 pm

At A Glance

  • Rep. Ann Matibag highlights rehabilitation and second chances by carrying a pearl handbag crafted by persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) during President Marcos' 2026 SONA.
  • As chair of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality, she champions livelihood and skills programs for marginalized sectors, including PDLs preparing for reintegration.
  • Matibag says supporting PDL-made products affirms every person's ability to rebuild their lives, reflecting her belief that public service should restore dignity and create hope.
Laguna 1st district Rep. Ann Matibag (Facebook)
Laguna 1st district Rep. Ann Matibag (Facebook)


This year's State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Marcos was billed as "simple but dignified"--something that was extended to lady guests at the event as a reminder for their outfit decisions.
Heeding the call for austerity was Laguna 1st district Rep. Ann Matibag, who instead chose to make her SONA outfit of the day more meaningful through her accessory of choice.
Matibag brought with her on Monday, July 27 at the House of Representatives a stunning handbag made of pearls, which was apparently crafted by persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
This move from the lady solon reflected her "commitment to rehabilitation and second chances".
According to Matibag, the bag represents her belief that every individual has the capacity to change when given the right opportunities, support, and dignity.
As chairperson of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality and president of the Zonta Club of Laguna, Matibag has consistently championed programs that promote livelihood, skills development, and rehabilitation for marginalized sectors.
Among these initiatives is her support for products made by PDLs, whom she helps equip with sustainable skills and opportunities as they prepare to reintegrate into society.
Matibag says supporting PDL-made products goes beyond recognizing craftsmanship--it is also an affirmation of every person's ability to rebuild their lives and begin anew.
By choosing to carry the handcrafted bag on the opening day of the second regular session, Matibag demonstrated her belief that meaningful public service is one that creates hope, restores dignity, and opens doors to opportunities for all.
The ranking lawmaker was accompanied by her husband, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag to the SONA held at the House of Representatives in Batasan, Quezon City.

Related Tags

Ann Matibag SONA PDL Melvin Matibag NBI
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