President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has underscored the critical need for a "like-minded president" to be elected in 2028, stressing that this is essential to sustain the ongoing reforms initiated by his administration and prevent the loss of benefits already in motion.
Continuity of Reforms at Stake
Speaking at a forum in Makati City, the Chief Executive warned that if the next leader does not share the same direction as the current administration, there is a risk that economic and social programs, which are now beginning to show positive effects, could be dismantled. He explained that in politics, it is common for projects from previous administrations to be halted due to criticism from opponents, and this pattern can extend even to the national level.
Focus on Structural Reforms
President Marcos clarified that his position is not driven by personal interests but rather by a commitment to advancing structural reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and making the Philippines more attractive to investors. He highlighted that the government has expanded programs in education, health, and social benefits to ensure that the public can immediately feel the advantages, making it harder for a future administration to easily remove them.
Challenges in Communicating Economic Issues
The President acknowledged the difficulty in explaining complex economic matters to the public, such as inflation, GDP growth, and the debt-to-GDP ratio. Despite these challenges, he remains focused on ensuring that the reforms yield tangible results that can withstand political changes.
This call for a like-minded successor reflects a broader strategy to secure long-term stability and growth, emphasizing that political continuity is key to avoiding disruptions in national development efforts.
