The government’s economic development and infrastructure clusters held a pre-SONA forum entitled “Game Changing Reforms for Sustainable Development” on July 1, 2019. The forum aimed to update key stakeholders on the various policy changes, programs, and projects implemented in the first half of President Duterte’s term.
Department of Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez, as well as Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo, provided an overview on the country’s current economic situation, specifically on the most recent GDP growth rates, inflation rates, and S&P rating. The Secretary and the Governor also informed the public of the current status of the various tax reform packages implemented recently, specifically the TRAIN law and the Sin tax. Lastly, the Secretary also provided an update on the country’s planned budget appropriations and expenditures, specifically on infrastructure, healthcare, and tertiary education.
For the infrastructure sector, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar updated the public on the current status of the government’s national broadband program, basic education facilities fund program, evacuation center development program, regional rehabilitation center for youth program, flood management program, tourism road infrastructure program, road linkages for trade and industry program, agri-infrastructure support program, the Philippine highway network program, as well as the various rehabilitations and additions to the country’s airports and railways networks.
The President is expected to discuss the fiscal policy and infrastructure initiatives planned for the rest of his term in the 2019 State of the Nation Address on 22 July (Monday). The ECOP leadership, as well as ECOP Chapter officers represented the organization in the forum.
Copies of the presentations could be downloaded via this link: http://www.iro.ph/presentations
