PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III vowed yesterday to extend cash transfers and health insurance to more families, to spread the gains from an economy that the World Bank has described as “a rising tiger.”

His 100-minute State of the Nation Address (Sona) in a joint session of Congress recapped positive developments in the economy, like the 7.8 percent growth in the gross domestic product from January to March this year.

“Our message to the world could not be clearer: The Philippines is ready to ride the tides of progress,” he said.

But the President also admitted that halfway into his term, more needs to be done to stamp out corruption; find more resources for airports, schools and other needed infrastructure; and ensure that future generations will get their pensions paid.

“Widespread opportunity is the key to comprehensive and sustained progress. Let us not forget that these opportunities are but seeds,” he said.

The President also said that national agencies are working with local governments to move informal settlers, particularly from riverbanks where they contribute to and are threatened by floods.

“In addition, a legal team led by (Justice) Secretary Leila de Lima is preparing to file cases against those who have closed or obstructed our waterways,” the President said.

Waterways

In the days leading to the Sona, communities in Cebu and Metro Manila have suffered from flash floods caused by heavy rains and clogged drainage systems.

“Haven’t we all heard before that waterways are inalienable? What this means is that the channels through which water passes should be for that purpose alone,” President Aquino said.

“The problem is, in addition to the lack of adequate drainage, certain structures are built, obstructing these drainage systems, a situation compounded by the trash of those living around it,” he added.

At least P6.2 billion was set aside to solve the problem of flooding in Metro Manila.

“But let us ask ourselves: How have I contributed to the solution? If someone dumps trash into a river, confront them; if you see a building being built obstructing an estuary, report it to the correct authorities. We will only drown in our problems if we do nothing,” said the President.

Asked for his assessment, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said he texted President Aquino immediately after the speech. This was his message: “Mr. President, this is Mike Rama. Congrats! I just want to let you know that I’m proud that you are my president.” (He ended it with a smiley.)

Solutions

He was amused by the mention of savings on the part of the public works department, saying Cebu City may have contributed to that because of its objection to billions worth of national projects like the flyovers and other road projects.

Rama, however, said the President could have mentioned more concrete solutions when he pointed out that all Filipinos subsidize passengers of the rail services in Metro Manila.

Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City, north district) said he found President Aquino’s message well-presented.

“It was an excellent performance report on his accomplishments plus a renewed pledge to follow through and complete his work by the end of the term,” said del Mar.

The report earned mixed reactions from the business sector.

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Lito Maderazo said although the President highlighted the country’s economic gains, he failed to address some relevant issues.

“My disappointment is that no mention was made about economic reforms. I hope that his economic managers will enlighten our President that sustainable growth can be attained if we are competitive against our neighbors,” said Maderazo in a text message.

He added there should be a serious review of the water and power tariffs and that extra attention needs to be paid to improving seaports.

Sincere

But one good thing about the Sona, Maderazo said, was when President Aquino called for nation-building. “He called for everyone’s active participation,” he said.

Toward the end of the speech, President Aquino commended all those who offer solutions to problems, instead of merely “complaining about them on Facebook.”

Philip Tan, president of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said he was inspired by the Sona.

“His overall speech was candid and sincere. We were inspired by the country’s achievements. How I wish the President’s character of firmness, leadership and being action-oriented will be duplicated or translated among local officials in the local government units,” Tan said.

“We need to move faster now that the momentum is here,” he said.

Like Tan, Filipino-Cebuano Business Club Inc. President Rey Calooy was also inspired by the “very comprehensive report.”

“The tuwid na daan really works,” he said, referring to gains the President reported in curbing corruption and enabling inclusive growth.

No FOI

What Aquino failed to mention, however, according to Calooy, was an update on the Freedom of Information Bill.

Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III, who attended the Sona, said it was a true report of what the administration has accomplished in the last three years.

“It was inspiring. That’s what we get when we have a President who is honest and trustworthy,” Davide said in a text message to Sun.Star Cebu.

Newly-elected House Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora (San Juan City) said that President Aquino should have emphasized his stand on some controversial bills, particularly the proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution.

“He lost the chance to give direct orders to his allies in Congress to drop Cha-cha (Charter change) because as of now, their stand differs,” Zamora said.

Zamora also criticized the President for failing to mention how the government intends to address the increase in the prices of basic goods and services.

He said that President Aquino also failed to detail how his administration intends to make accountable the organizations and individuals, including legislators, who are behind the P10-billion pork barrel scam.
Pres. Benigno Aquino III highlights growing confidence in PH during Sona | Sun.Star