Putting the economy on track to return to its pre-pandemic level is the priority of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go in his first 100 days if he wins the presidency in next year’s elections.
Go, who is running under the Partido ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan (PDDS), vowed to pursue a path towards rapid and inclusive economic recovery.
To do so, his administration will open up more sectors, build up the tourism industry, and provide recovery packages to sectors hit hardest by COVID-19 such as agriculture and fisheries and micro, small and medium enterprises.
His administration, Go said, will also provide ten million of the poorest of the poor Filipinos financial assistance and jobs as well as improved access to zero-interest loans.
“The administration will likewise pursue tax reforms that complement the Comprehensive Tax Reforms Programs of the Duterte Administration, continue the infrastructure projects of the Build, Build, Build Program, and initiate inter-island linkages or the mega-bridge program to improve the movement of goods and people across the archipelago,” also added the former presidential aide.
Other initiatives will include the providing free quality and reliable internet connectivity through a Free WiFi for all program and passage of the E-Governance, Department of Disaster Resilience, Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos, and Center for Disease Control and Prevention bills.
“I regard President Rodrigo Duterte as the best president this country has ever had and that puts a lot of pressure on whoever succeeds him. Indeed, the successor will have big shoes to fill,” said Go.
According to Go, he avoided this position, but fate has a way of turning things around.
“The presidency, I believe, is a matter of destiny. I leave my fate to God and to you, my fellow Filipinos,” said Go during the 47th Philippine Business Conference & Expo Presidentiables’ Forum held by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
To raise the country from the ravages of COVID 19, he pledged to implement the Duterte Administration’s three-pillar strategy which consists of gradually reopening of the economy in a safe manner, ensuring the timely implementation of recovery packages, and accelerating the progress of the national vaccination program.
“Following this key strategy, we will bring our people towards recovery. And with other programs under my administration—where we will put our health sector and economy as the pinnacle of our agenda—we will bring people towards prosperity and resilience,” he assured.
To highlight his contributions to the health care sector, the chair of the Senate committee on health, cited the successful passage of his legislative priorities, particularly the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 which provides poor and indigent patients improved access to financial support from the government. There are currently 149 fully operational Malasakit Centers nationwide, a figure which Go vowed to increase in his first 100 days in office.
“I would also like to emphasize that in my administration, you can expect the same strong stance in the government’s fight against corruption, criminality and drugs. This is crucial in creating an environment conducive for business, where everyone will feel safe,” added Go.