President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed satisfaction with the Philippines’ strong economic performance in 2024. However, he emphasized the importance of effectively communicating to the public the government’s efforts to improve the lives of Filipinos.
“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,” President Marcos said over the 24th NEDA Board Meeting in Malacañang discussing the Philippine Development Report 2024.
“But 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 in a language that 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.
President Marcos highlighted the smooth implementation of reforms and programs across government agencies, acknowledging that some initiatives may take several years to fully realize their benefits. He pointed to the opening of the Bataan-Cavite Bridge as an example, emphasizing its potential to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila and improve connectivity to Central Luzon and CALABARZON.
The President also called for a comprehensive and consolidated report on the government’s efforts to ensure food security for all Filipinos.
According to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the current administration aims for a higher growth rate of 6% to 8% in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) this year, compared to the previous year’s target of 6.0% to 6.5%. The government also aims to keep headline inflation within the 2% to 4% range and reduce poverty incidence to 13.2%.
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan assured that the government will continue to pursue social and economic transformation that can keep pace with modern technology and improve the lives of all Filipinos.