INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Representative Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. called on his colleagues in the House of Representatives to maintain their commitment to working on measures that will support the country’s economic growth.
Gonzales made this appeal in response to the World Bank’s decision to upgrade its economic outlook for the Philippines this year from 5.4-5.6 percent to six percent.
“Let’s ignore any political noise that comes our way. Let’s remain focused on helping President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and our Speaker Martin Romualdez in keeping the economy on the high growth path by enhancing conditions that would attract investments and create job and income opportunities for our people,” Gonzales said.
Expressing confidence in the country’s potential, Gonzales stated, “We could do better than the World Bank forecast.”
He highlighted the strong economic performance during the first nine months of Marcos’ term, with notable growth rates of 7.6 percent and 7.2 percent in the third and fourth quarters of 2022, and 6.4 percent in the first quarter of this year.
“With no major unforeseen events, we should be able to achieve six percent and even surpass the World Bank forecast this year,” Gonzales added.
Gonzales said that sustaining a high economic growth path over multiple years is crucial for successfully reducing poverty in the country, a goal repeatedly expressed by Marcos. He called for unity among lawmakers in working towards this vision alongside Speaker Romualdez and the House of Representatives.
Highlighting the House’s accomplishments, Gonzales acknowledged the approval of 33 out of 42 urgent measures during the first regular session of the 19th Congress, fulfilling their commitment to prioritize administration bills.
“However, there is still much to be done. Let us continue working on measures that would improve the country’s economic conditions and investment climate. Let us implement additional reforms and improvements that businesses, investors, and most importantly, our people, are calling for,” Gonzales said.
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