Marcos programs vs poverty now yielding results

By Billy Begas

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said the programs of the Marcos administration to address poverty are now yielding results.

Romualdez noted the latest Tugon Ng Masa survey published by OCTA Research, which showed that the self-rated poverty dropped by 5% equivalent to an estimated 1.4 million Filipino families.

He said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration should be commended “for their approach to reducing poverty and addressing food insecurity, leading to a notable reduction in self-rated hunger.”

“Sustaining our economic recovery requires collaboration between the private sector, government, and academia. We must ensure that the Marcos administration’s vision of a more equitable and prosperous Philippines becomes a reality. Through consistent efforts, we can further reduce poverty and provide more opportunities for our people to thrive,” Romualdez said.

He added that the House has approved the joint inquiry of five committees to investigate and propose legislation to counteract massive smuggling and price manipulation of essential goods.

The quinta committee is composed of the Committees on Ways and Means, Trade and Industry, Agriculture and Food, Social Services, and the Special Committee on Food Security.

Despite government efforts, Romualdez said many Filipinos still face food insecurity.

He cited a report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization showing that the Philippines ranks first in food insecurity in Southeast Asia, with around 51 million Filipinos experiencing a moderate to severe lack of food and highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive action.

“This year, our nation has endured the impacts of both El Niño and extensive flooding, causing severe damage to the agricultural sector and affecting countless livelihoods,” the House leader said.

In response, and under the President’s directive, Romualdez said the proposed 2025 national budget was crafted “to create a more resilient and sustainable future for our communities.”

Aside from allocating funds to minimize flooding, Romualdez said P293.23 billion was earmarked to enhance social services, strengthen social safety nets, and ensure food security. This is in addition to the P591.8 billion allocated by the Department of Budget and Management for cash assistance to indigent families.

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