President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. (Photo from PCO)
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s inclusion in Time magazine’s list of the world’s most influential people for 2024 shows how much the country’s interests have advanced under the current administration, House of Representatives lawmakers, including Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez himself said.
Romualdez on Friday congratulated his cousin Marcos on being included in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People for 2024, which he said also recognized the various tangible improvements in the Philippines.
“This prestigious recognition underscores the President’s unwavering dedication to advancing our nation’s interests and securing a brighter future for all Filipinos,” Romualdez said in a statement.
“President Marcos’ visionary leadership has brought about tangible improvements in various facets of our society. His strategic economic policies have steered our country towards stability and growth, even during global uncertainties. Moreover, his steadfast stance against external threats, particularly in defending our sovereignty amidst escalating tensions, exemplifies his resolute commitment to protecting the Filipino people,” he added.
In an article published on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila), Time noted how Marcos stood up against China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), while stabilizing the country’s post-COVID-19 pandemic economy.
Romualdez said Marcos’ aspirations for the country reflect those of the common man—a prosperous country that can tackle internal and external challenges.
“Beyond the realms of economics and geopolitics, President Marcos has consistently shown genuine concern for the well-being of every Filipino. His initiatives to tackle societal challenges and foster inclusivity deeply resonate with the aspirations of our nation,” he said.
“Recognizing the complexities of our history, it is imperative to recognize President Marcos’ transformative efforts in driving positive change and progress. His vision for a prosperous and harmonious Philippines reflects the aspirations of millions of Filipinos,” he added.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. also aired the same sentiments while urging officials to sustain the momentum sparked by Marcos.
“It’s a recognition of our country and the kind of leadership and governance our good President is showing,” Gonzales said.
“Let us not waste this groundswell of goodwill to help our leaders improve our country and the lives of our people. Let us pray that they make the right decisions for our nation and the majority of us Filipinos,” he added.
Deputy Speaker David Suarez, meanwhile, believes that Marcos was cited by the magazine because of his “principled approach” to discussing the country’s claim to portions of the South China Sea.
“His firm and principled approach in asserting our sovereign rights in the face of external threats has earned him widespread acclaim and admiration from both domestic and international communities. Tunay ngang nakikita natin ang pagiging makabayan at maka-Pilipino ng ating Pangulo sa kanyang patuloy na pagtindig laban sa panggigipit ng China sa WPS,” he said.
(We really saw our President’s nationalism and pro-Filipino stance through his continuous stand against China’s harassment in the WPS.)
“His administration’s efforts to attract foreign investments have significantly bolstered our economy, driving job creation, stimulating growth, and fostering prosperity for all Filipinos,” he added.
Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said several House members are happy that Marcos’ efforts have been acknowledged, considering that the President has often been “low-key” about his administration’s work.
“I can imagine how the President feels that after all his hard work, it has now come to this – a credit from no less than one of the most respected news magazines in the world for several decades. What he started to plant is now bearing fruit, so to speak,” Adiong said.
“We’re glad that TIME magazine acknowledged that despite being a silent and low-key head of state, they gave credit to President Marcos for standing up against China’s continued advances over our maritime territory,” he added.
The citation from Time came a week after Marcos flew to the United States for an official visit and the trilateral summit between the Philippines, US, and Japan.
After the discussions, Marcos, US President Joe Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio specified various points of cooperation, such as investments in the Luzon Economic Corridor and projects to link hubs in the area; field testing of new-generation internet systems; and study tours for Filipino scientists to teach them how to handle nuclear energy.
Aside from that, the three leaders also expressed concerns over China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea, calling on the Asian superpower to stop using its Coast Guard in a coercive manner.