Malacañang on Tuesday looked back at the achievements of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the legislative front, saying he remains on track in terms of implementing key policies aimed at expanding the Philippine economy while protecting public welfare.
In a press statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) noted several landmark laws signed by the President in 2024—11 of which were priority measures endorsed by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).
Among these was the New Government Procurement Act (Republic Act No. 12009), a law designed to align public procurement practices with international standards. This policy reinforces the government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency, according to the PCO.
The Marcos administration also doubled down on its digital transformation goals with the enactment of the Anti-Financial Accounts Scamming Act (RA 12010), designed to protect consumers against the growing menace of cybercrime and financial account scams.
There was also the VAT on Digital Transactions Act (RA 12023), which enhances the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s authority to tax foreign digital services. It aims to ensure a fairer revenue system to support public services in the digital economy.
President Marcos also prioritized agriculture, enacting the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (RA 12022) and the Agricultural Tariffication Act (RA 12078) to boost support for farmers and safeguard consumers from unwarranted price hikes on essential goods.
He likewise addressed the country’s economic competitiveness through the passage of the CREATE MORE Act (RA 12066), which enhances tax incentives and fosters an investment-friendly business environment.
On national security, President Marcos signed twin laws to assert the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea and its maritime domain—the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act (RA 12065). In addition, the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act (RA 12024) was enacted to strengthen local defense industries.
The President also signed laws to bridge education and industry demands, two laws were passed: the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning Program Act (RA 12028) and the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Program Act (RA 12063). These measures aim to equip young Filipinos with the skills needed for a competitive workforce.
Several other laws focused on education and disaster response were also enacted, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to public welfare. These include:
· No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act (RA 11984) – ensuring students’ access to exams regardless of financial status.
· Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act (RA 11997) – granting allowances for public school teachers.
· Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (RA 12080) – addressing mental health challenges in schools.
· Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (RA 12076) – mandating safe evacuation centers in every city and municipality.
· Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters Emergencies Act (RA 12077) – offering financial relief to students during emergencies.
Overall, President Marcos approved over 100 national and local laws in 2024 that align with his vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas” built on progress, inclusivity, and resilience, according to PCO.
