President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday said health, livelihood, and peace initiatives have taken center stage in his first 100 days as the country’s 17th chief executive.
In his weekly vlog, Mr. Marcos said he considers as his administration’s accomplishments the implementation of policies and programs to ensure public health, provide more livelihood opportunities, and maintain peace and order in the country.
“We made sure to give proper attention to the foundations of an abundant society. For me, the promotion of health, livelihood, and peace could be the theme of our first 100 days,” he said.
Mr. Marcos said he picked the “best and brightest” government officials who can help him ensure the recovery of the country amid the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic and global challenges, including rising prices of oil and commodities.
He said he did not feel that he was in a “honeymoon” phase because he is already “familiar” with his job as president.
“It has been 100 days since I served as president. Some are saying that the first 100 days is a honeymoon period, but I do not feel that way because I am already familiar with my job,” he said.
As for prioritizing health amid the pandemic, Mr. Marcos said he believed his administration is managing well because of its “PinasLakas” vaccination drive.
“Even if COVID-19 is still here, we can say that we are managing this virus well. So I hope those who are already fully vaccinated will get a booster shot,” he said.
He said the government also made a significant stride after the Department of Budget and Management recently approved the release of P1.04 billion to cover the unpaid COVID-19 special risk allowance (SRA) claims of around 55,211 health workers involved in the pandemic response.
Mr. Marcos said the resumption of limited face-to-face classes was a big help for “retail and informal vendors.”
“There are 28 million learners for the school year 2022 to 2023. This figure brought significant economic activity and stimulus, especially to retail and informal vendors,” he said.
Marcos also headlined his recent visits to Indonesia, Singapore, and the United States, which he said all bore fruit following the signing of memoranda of understanding and letters of intent amounting to S18.92 billion or over P1 trillion.
The business commitments from the investors from the three countries recently visited by the President are expected to generate around 134,285 jobs, the Palace said.
“Our economic recovery is the recovery of Filipino families, that’s why we are exhausting all efforts to create more jobs in the country.
Our main goal in visiting the three countries is to tell everyone that the Philippines is once again open for businesses and investments,” Mr. Marcos said.
Marcos, who concurrently serves as Agriculture secretary, said his administration is also focused on helping farmers.
He said the government has offered fertilizer discount vouchers, released an additional P84.1 million budget for the local coffee production and rehabilitation program, and issued a one-year moratorium and condonation of farmers’ loan payment.
“After our 100 days in office, we will continue to work harder and serve the public better for your dream, for my dream, and for our beloved Philippines. Through teamwork and unity, we will rise together,” the President said.
