Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace
May 22, 2025
“Hamon ko sa Gabinete at mga pinuno ng ahensya, siguruhing matatapos ang mga proyekto nang ayon sa schedule at sa budget. Hindi na tayo papayag na may masyadong cost-overrun, mayroong mga time extension wala namang makatwirang dahilan. And no to non-performing projects,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated during the presentation of recently enacted laws at a ceremony held in Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace.
Underscoring the Administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Filipino families through strategic planning, effective governance and disaster preparedness, President Marcos Jr. announced the formal establishment of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) – transforming the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) into a full-fledged Executive Department. This move aims to address long-standing issues where well-crafted projects remain on paper due to implementation gaps.
“Sa mga nakaraang taon, nakita nating maraming mahuhusay na plano ang nananatiling plano na lamang. May mga proyektong inaprubahan, ngunit hindi lahat ay kaagad nating naisasagawa,” he said, emphasizing that DEPDev will ensure that funds are used according to approved plans, that programs are implemented correctly, and that projects such as roads, schools, health centers, and bridges are completed on time and serve the public effectively.
DEPDev will also serve as a monitoring body to oversee project progress, identify initiatives that need expansion or adjustment, and eliminate wasteful spending of resources, time and opportunities. Additionally, he announced the strict approval process of Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) loans starting today.
Acknowledging the Philippines’ vulnerability as part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Chief Executive reaffirmed the Administration’s dedication to disaster risk reduction through the recently enacted PHIVOLCS Modernization Act. The Law aims to modernize the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) by increasing its budget over the next five (5) years to acquire advanced equipment, establish new facilities and expand monitoring networks, especially for active volcanoes.
The President also commended the dedication of PHIVOLCS scientists and field personnel, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to public safety. He urged the youth to pursue careers in science, volcanology and related fields to help strengthen the country’s disaster resilience.
“Sa pamamagitan ng ating mga batas, isinusulong natin ang gobyernong hindi lang magaling sa papel, kundi maaasahan sa panahon ng pangangailangan. Hindi lang nakatuon sa mga malalaking proyekto, kundi sa kalidad ng buhay ng karaniwang Pilipino,” he said. He highlighted the crucial partnership between the Legislative and Executive branches in ensuring the welfare of all Filipinos.
Concluding his remarks, President Marcos Jr. called on every Filipino to work together in achieving the vision of a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’. “Sama-sama po tayong magtulungan upang maitatag ang isang Bagong Pilipinas na mapayapa, makatarungan, at may malasakit para sa lahat,” he said in closing.
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