President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. yesterday expressed pride in the government’s economic achievements in 2024 but emphasized the need to better communicate their impact on the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
Speaking during the 24th National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at Malacañang, the President said while he is satisfied with last year’s economic progress, it is crucial to make the public informed about these successes.
“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,” Mr. Marcos said.
“But we have to make it known to people that this is what we are doing. It has to be in a language that is easily digestible and makes sense to Juan dela Cruz,” he added.
The President noted the government’s ongoing implementation of structural reforms and infrastructure projects, some of which may take years to complete.
He stressed the importance of explaining the long-term benefits of these initiatives, particularly unfinished projects like the Bataan-Cavite Bridge.
The bridge, he said, would help ease Metro Manila’s traffic congestion while boosting connectivity in Central Luzon and Calabarzon.
President Marcos also called for a consolidated report on efforts to ensure food security, urging officials to clearly articulate how these initiatives benefit Filipino families and improve quality of life.
In a video presentation, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan warned against complacency and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth.
For 2025, the government is targeting a gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of 6.0% to 8.0%, headline inflation of 2.0% to 4.0%, and a reduction in poverty incidence to below 13.2%.
Balisacan outlined NEDA’s priorities for the year, including developing new growth drivers, promoting technological adoption, and strengthening collaborations with stakeholders.
The agency also plans to work with Congress to secure development priorities and ensure fiscal programs align with growth objectives.
