Marcos Jr.: Make economic terms comprehensible to masses

MANILA, Philippines —  Experiencing “nosebleed” when encountering terms like gross domestic product, headline inflation and fiscal policy?

Admitting the lack of connection between the efforts of the government and the ordinary citizens it is supposed to serve, President Marcos ordered agencies to ensure that the administration’s projects and economic gains are relayed in a comprehensible way.

“I’m quite satisfied. I’m even proud. I would go as far as saying I’m proud of the things that we have achieved,” Marcos said during the 24th meeting of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting in Malacañang.

“But we have to make it known to people that this is what we are doing. So, it has to be in a language that is easily digestible and in a language that makes sense to Juan dela Cruz. We’re falling behind in making the connection between what we are doing to the lives of ordinary Filipinos,” he added.

Marcos pointed out that the government is implementing major structural reforms and projects that may take years to complete.

He said the government must explainto the public why others are still ongoing and highlight their long-term benefits.

The President cited the opening of the Bataan-Cavite Bridge, which he said would reduce traffic congestion in Metro Manila and open up other areas in Central Luzon and Calabarzon.

He called for a “thorough and consolidated” report that would discuss how the government’s food security efforts would benefit Filipino families, why they are crucial for the future and how they improve overall quality of life.

The NEDA board meeting tackled the Philippine Development Report 2024.

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government must avoid complacency and reiterated his vow to make growth more inclusive.