What is the #StoryofTheNation?
Take photos of people in your community and ask them what they'd want to say to the President. Help Rappler illustrate the narrative of the ordinary Filipino in time for SONA 2014
Published 11:30 AM, July 21, 2014
Updated 6:27 AM, July 27, 2014
MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III will deliver his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28.
Traditionally, the SONA is a time for the President to review the past year's achievements and present plans for the government in the coming year. From pork barrel funds and Napoles to the Bangsamoro and Yolanda, the President will have a lot to talk about this year.
As in past addresses, we expect the President to design his SONA to instill a sense of pride, inspire, and uplift a public both skeptical and hopeful about the future. But then that's his story.
What moves you?
It's time to go beyond the official lines and well-lacquered keynote presentations to unearth the untold stories of everyday Filipinos who have just as much stake in the nation's future as President Aquino.
We want to hear your story, what moves you.
Help illustrate the narrative of the Filipino people and the #StoryofTheNation.
Here's how:
Sana sabihin ni Presidenta na bababa na ang gas! Dun kasi nakasalalay kabuhayan ko. (I hope the President will say that the prices of gas will go down! My work depends on it) - Jackson Asuncion, Jeepney driver. Photo by Little Wing Luna/Rappler
Step 1: Explore!
Armed with your camera or phone, talk to the members of your community – everyday Filipinos who just want to earn a decent living and have a happy family.
Ask what motivates them, what frustrates them, or what they'd want to say to the President. Or, if they were the President, what would they want to tell the nation?
Don't forget to record their answers and other basic details, like their name and profession.
Step 2: Click!
Take a picture of your subjects.
It's best to take them within their natural environment or in a situation that says something about who they are.
Take note, the subjects do not need to always smile or look at the camera.
Step 3: Submit!
You can also send your entries via
Facebook or
Twitter. When submitting via social media, remember to use #StoryOfTheNation and make your post public. You can also submit using the Rappler app.
We will accept submissions until July 25 and post them on our sites before the SONA on July 28. – Rappler.com
Rappler would like to thank Humans of New York and Man on the Street Philippines for inspiring us in this campaign.
