📌 Insider Spotlight:
📉 The backdrop:
Mr. Marcos acknowledged public frustration over subpar delivery of government services despite improving macroeconomic indicators. He emphasized that solid data—such as slowing inflation and falling joblessness—mean little if ordinary Filipinos continue to struggle financially.
“These are decorations,” he said. “They are meaningless if people still find life burdensome.”
💼 Employment and MSMEs:
Mr. Marcos identified “decent work” as the primary shield against poverty. He committed to expanding support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through capital infusions at low interest and no collateral. Nearly 2.5 million poor families are targeted to receive assistance in setting up small businesses.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), along with DTI and DSWD, will lead employment creation initiatives aimed at reducing the 4-percent unemployment rate.
🌾 Agriculture and P20 rice:
The President also confirmed the P20 per kilo rice program is feasible without harming farmers, citing successful pilot programs nationwide. A P113-billion budget for the Department of Agriculture will support nationwide rollout via KADIWA stores.
He warned rice traders against price manipulation, labeling such actions as economic sabotage.
Investments will also flow into local hog production, coconut replanting, and modernization of post-harvest facilities, he said.
🔌 Energy and utilities:
The President also pledged full electrification by 2028, noting that 2.5 million homes have been energized since 2022. Over 200 new power plants are in the pipeline. The Energy Department will also speed up net metering approvals to enable households to sell excess solar power.
He cited the Siquijor power crisis as a governance failure, vowing permanent fixes and accountability.
On water, Mr. Marcos criticized poor service from water districts and joint ventures, directing the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to enforce reforms amid rising complaints from over 6 million consumers.
🚧 Infra push continues:
The administration is banking on the “Build Better More” program, with railways, expressways, ports, and flood control projects at its core.
In what was the highlight of his annual address to Congress, the President ordered a full audit of flood control spending after recent typhoon damage exposed shoddy work and alleged corruption.
🧮 Bottom line:
With three years left in his term, Mr. Marcos signaled urgency and accountability.
He warned lawmakers he would veto any 2026 budget proposal misaligned with the government’s economic roadmap—even if it leads to a reenacted budget.
— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas
