Marcos: Philippines can recover from impact of global conflicts

MANILA, Philippines — Through unity and good governance, President Marcos says he is confident that the Philippines can recover from the impact of global conflicts and economic shocks.

In a video that marked his first 100 days in office, the President noted that the beginning of his administration was confronted by the impact of external conflicts and economic challenges, but maintained that huge problems should not be obstacles to the recovery of the country.

The eight-and-a-half-minute video was posted on YouTube by Ten17P, the film production company of Marcos’ relative Paul Soriano.

“There are many more dreams that we have to focus on and fulfill. Our colleagues in the government are diligent and competent,” Marcos said in Filipino.

“Only 2,400 hours have passed. Be assured that in the coming 2,090 days, with the blessing of God, good governance and our collective efforts, we will recover together,” he added.

The video was basically a recap of the major engagements of Marcos and the accomplishments of different agencies.

Marcos started by touting the investment pledges made during his inaugural trips to Indonesia and Singapore.

He said 12 letters of intent and 12 memoranda of understanding in renewable energy, data centers, e-commerce, broadband technology, startups, government housing and agriculture were signed during the two state visits last month.

The pledges may yield $14.36 billion or P804.78 billion worth of investments to the Philippines, he added.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista also appeared on the video to talk about the programs and accomplishments of their respective agencies.

An infographic posted on the social media pages of the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) also highlighted the administration’s gains in the areas of health (kalusugan), peace (kapayapaan), livelihood (kabuhayan) and education (edukasyon).

Under “kalusugan,” the OPS enumerated the giving of P1.04-billion special risk allowance to health care workers, the higher number of persons vaccinated against COVID-19, the PinasLakas vaccination campaign and the executive order easing the face mask rule.

The accomplishments listed under “kapayapaan” were the representation of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front and other sectors in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and the assistance given to former rebels.

Under “kabuhayan,” the administration cited the 134,285 jobs that may be created by the investment pledges secured during Marcos’ trips to Indonesia, Singapore and the United States.

The resumption of face-to-face classes, free rides and financial aid for students were listed under “edukasyon.”

Last week, Marcos said he considers the tapping of the “best and the brightest” to serve in his administration and the putting up of a “functional” government as his key accomplishments in his first 100 days as president.