Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) lauded President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the gains of his administration on Sunday, July 23, ahead of his State of the Nation Address on Monday.
Benitez, in his message of support, lauded the president for driving a 6 percent GDP growth in the Philippines, making the country one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region, with impressive achievements in employment, witnessing a 95.7 percent increase, and a 4.3 percent drop in unemployment in May.
Inflation reached a significant decline of 5.4 percent in June, reflecting the President’s successful macroeconomic management, he said.
Benitez also commended the president’s vision for Philippine tourism, culture, and the arts.
“His support has led to a 9.3 percent growth in domestic tourism and a 131.2 percent growth in internal tourism expenditures, providing employment for 5.35 million Filipinos in the tourism and creative industries sector. The President’s initiatives to endow scholarships and develop cultural infrastructures, such as creative communities will profoundly bolster our creative economy for the next few years, “ Benitez said.
He also said Marcos as agriculture secretary, has instituted significant institutional reforms promising improved governance, food security, and potential food sovereignty for the country.
“We look forward to the expansion of Kadiwa Centers, which will support local farmers and provide safe and affordable food for all. We also applaud the passage of R.A. 6657, condoning over 600,000 farmer-beneficiaries from their loans, and express our gratitude in Congress for his support on crucial measures for the development of the Blue Economy, the modernization of agricultural practices, and the fostering of sustainable growth in the agribusiness sector,” he added.
The progress made in addressing the housing crisis through the 4PH initiative is also noteworthy, he said.
“It is encouraging to witness significant progress in efforts to address the 6.5 million housing backlog. The City of Victorias, in particular, is excited to unveil its Sidlak Village as one of its first major housing milestones, which will provide 600 homes to informal settler families and government employees in the city,” Benitez said.
Benitez also lauded Marcos’ commitment to the protection of the environment and the battle against climate change.
“We also thank the government for its proactive efforts in embracing technology in preparation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and globalization. The attempts to improve connectivity, expand internet access to remote areas, and build e-governance are all progressive policies that all Filipinos shall truly benefit from,” Benitez said.
Benitez said he eagerly anticipates the unveiling of his legislative agenda and plans in the forthcoming SONA address and extends his wholehearted support in Congress to his initiatives.
“May this second State of the Nation Address pave the way for sustained progress and development in the Philippines,” he added.*