Malacañang on Monday defended the government’s handling of the national debt, responding to Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism by emphasizing the importance of historical context and current government programs.
In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the P16 trillion debt figure represents a cumulative total incurred over several past administrations, not just under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“Let’s remember, the P16 trillion national debt is the total debt incurred by previous administrations,” Castro said. “Under the Duterte administration alone, the debt rose to P12.79 trillion as of June 2022. Of that, P6.84 trillion was accumulated during that administration — a 115.1% increase.”
Duterte earlier questioned the benefit of the ballooning debt, asking why the public has yet to see its impact. Castro responded by pointing to several government initiatives currently being funded, including expanded PhilHealth coverage, the establishment of BUCAS (Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service) centers, rice subsidy programs, fuel assistance, and discounts for mass transit passengers.
“She admitted in her speech in Australia that reports of economic progress exist, even if only ‘on paper,’” Castro said. “It’s difficult to teach those who do not want to learn. It’s hard to open the eyes of someone who is blind or chooses to remain blind.”
Castro also said the Marcos administration is taking steps to reduce dependence on borrowing by strengthening the economy and improving tax collection. “There are crises that require funding,” she noted, “but the President’s goal is to minimize debt while meeting the needs of the Filipino people.”