Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stepped up the administration's twin priorities of economic protection and governance accountability this week, rolling out coordinated measures to help Filipinos cope with global pressures while intensifying anti-corruption efforts. The President's weekly engagements underscored a unified strategy for economic stabilization, social protection, legal enforcement actions, and peacebuilding.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos, on April 21, convened the 4th Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) Committee meeting to assess ongoing government interventions against inflationary pressures and global oil volatility. The meeting highlighted a whole-of-government response aimed at stabilizing prices, ensuring energy supply security, and sustaining livelihood support for vulnerable sectors. Government data showed that more than 24,000 overseas Filipino workers have so far received assistance, while thousands have been repatriated amid the crisis in the Middle East.
Energy security was also highlighted, with millions of barrels of oil secured and a buffer supply projected to last more than 50 days, ensuring stable domestic consumption. The government reported that more than 977,000 public utility vehicles (PUV) have already benefitted from fuel subsidies and transport assistance programs.
On April 20, Marcos inspected the Department of Transportation's Service Contracting Program (SCP) at the Araneta Center Bus Terminal in Cubao City as part of efforts to stabilize public transport operations. The SCP provides per-kilometer subsidies to PUVs, ensuring continuous transport operations despite rising fuel costs. Marcos emphasized that the program protects both transport workers and commuters, especially amid global oil price spikes driven by geopolitical tensions.
On April 23, Marcos also led the distribution of rice subsidies to small-scale vendors in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, as part of targeted social support programs. He inspected Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets, which provide affordable agricultural goods directly from farmers to consumers. He likewise met with village officials and vowed continued funding support for community development and education assistance projects, especially amid tensions in the Gulf region.
On April 20, Marcos directed intensified efforts to bring back former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, a key figure in the alleged multibillion-peso flood control scandal, stressing that the fugitive lawmaker must 'answer to the Filipino people.' The President instructed the Department of Justice and the Department of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with international counterparts to expedite lawful procedures for Co's repatriation.
Meanwhile, Marcos, on April 20, swore in former Armed Forces chief Eduardo Oban Jr. as National Security Adviser, replacing retired official Eduardo A±o, reinforcing the country's defense and security framework. On April 21, Marcos also appointed former interior secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento as Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, replacing retired general Carlito Galvez Jr.
Marcos also held a phone conversation with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on April 21. He congratulated the Prime Minister on his appointment and reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to enhance ties with Thailand by advancing cooperation in priority areas, such as energy and food security.
Marcos also inspected the completed residential buildings and amenities at the Palayan City Township on April 23. The 23-hectare township is a key development project under the expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program. Several units in the condominium-type development were already occupied, marking the township's transition to a developing residential community.
Marcos, on April 23, also joined thousands of devotees in Pangasinan for the centennial canonical coronation of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. He called for unity, compassion, and continued service to communities during the religious event. This week's activities form part of a unified strategy to protect Filipinos from external shocks while strengthening governance systems.
