Ortigas Center, Pasig City
29 January 2013
President Benigno S. Aquino III graced the 40th anniversary celebration of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) where he lauded the agency’s successes and continuing work towards the fulfillment of the administration’s highest aspiration for the country – growth that leaves no Filipino behind.
“From ensuring that official development assistance, or ODA, is used appropriately for the development of the Philippines, to providing the national government with the data and analysis necessary for informed decisions, to providing evaluations and assessments of government’s biggest proposed projects, your work is invaluable in our quest to sustain our economic development,” the President said.
He cited the country’s good news that he shared to businessmen and world leaders in the recently concluded World Economic Forum in Switzerland such as the 6.5 percent economic growth average for the first three quarters of 2012, the previous year’s average inflation rate being kept within targets, to the developments made in the three priority sectors of agriculture, tourism and infrastructure.
The Chief Executive also commended NEDA for its dedication in fulfilling its mandate and service to the country, noting Secretary Arsenio Balisacan’s welcome remarks that the agency was compromised in the past and its mandate subverted in favor of pursuing intentions that were less than honorable.
“No longer are decisions based on political convenience or self-aggrandizement. Now, decisions are made in a rational and just manner – a reflection of our commitment to good governance, which recognizes the need for careful planning and the prioritization of our goals,” President Aquino emphasized.
After his message, the President viewed the Exhibit of Philippine Development Plans (1947-present) showcasing copies of national development plans including those related to post-World War II rehabilitation.
NEDA’s 40th anniversary celebration carries the theme “NEDA at 40 and Beyond: Lead. Engage. Transform.” Through the years, the agency had produced nine Medium Term Plans and had 14 NEDA Directors-General at its helm. At present, it has 15 regional offices and 7 attached agencies.
* * *