MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. took pride in the economic achievements of the Philippines in 2024, emphasizing the importance of effectively communicating these successes to the public.
During the 24th National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting held at Malacañang, Marcos recognized the substantial progress that has been made but highlighted the necessity of linking government initiatives to the everyday lives of Filipino citizens.
“I’m quite satisfied. I’m even proud. I would go as far as saying I’m proud of the things that we have achieved,” Marcos said, referencing the Philippine Development Report 2024.
“We have to make it known to people that this is what we are doing. So, it has to be in a language that is easily digestible and makes sense to Juan dela Cruz. We’re falling behind in making the connection between what we are doing to the lives of ordinary Filipinos,” he added.
While acknowledging that the government’s significant reforms and projects may require years to realize their full impact, Marcos urged for greater transparency regarding their long-term advantages.
He pointed to the Bataan-Cavite Bridge, which is designed to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila and enhance access to Central Luzon and Calabarzon, as a pertinent example.
Furthermore, the President emphasized the necessity for a detailed report on initiatives aimed at ensuring food security, to clarify how these measures will benefit Filipino families, their importance for the future, and their role in enhancing overall quality of life.
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, in a video presentation, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to sustained economic growth and inclusivity.
For 2025, the government has set a gross domestic product growth target of 6 to 8 percent, an increase from last year’s target of 6 to 6.5 percent.
Additionally, the government aims to maintain inflation within the range of 2 to 4 percent and to reduce poverty levels below 13.2 percent this year, with a goal of achieving 9 percent by 2028. Balisacan outlined plans to address these objectives.
The agency also plans to work with Congress to ensure fiscal programs support growth and that regular monitoring, evaluation, and integration into budgeting, planning, and investment programming occur./PN
