BAYANIHAN, PANAGHIUSA

AT PAG-ASA:
MOVING AS ONE NATION
TOWARDS A BETTER NORMAL

THE PRESIDENT’S
PENULTIMATE REPORT
TO THE PEOPLE
2016-2020
 THE PRESIDENT’S
PENULTIMATE REPORT
TO THE PEOPLE
2016-2020

Bayanihan, Panaghiusa, at Pag-asa:

Moving as One Nation Towards a Better Normal
The President’s Penultimate Report to the People 2016-2020
Bayanihan, Panaghiusa at Pag-asa: Moving as One Nation Towards a Better Normal

Published by the Office of the President - Presidential Management Staff

in collaboration with the national government departments and agencies.

2020. All rights reserved.

Cover designed by the Presidential Management Staff

Printed by Velprint Corporation

Any part of this publication may be used and reproduced subject to proper citation
and/or acknowledgement. However, prior written approval of the publisher is
necessary for the commercial use of this publication or any part thereof.

PMS Building, Arlegui Street, San Miguel, Manila 1005 Philippines

Tel No.: +632 876-8450
E-mail Address: info@pms.gov.ph
 Foreword
By the grace of God, I have reached the penultimate year of my term.
The past four years have been a testament that, indeed, no leader,
however strong, can succeed at anything of national importance unless
he has the support and cooperation of the people he is tasked to lead
and sworn to serve. I owe my leadership to the trust, cooperation,
solidarity, and resiliency of the Filipino people, especially in these most
trying times as we, like the rest of the world, battle a faceless enemy.

When COVID-19 struck, I knew my priority: bago ang lahat, buhay

muna. Life above everything else. It would have been a more difficult
choice had we not put in place sound economic fundamentals since
the beginning of my Administration. Because of the milestones we
have achieved as a nation towards a comfortable life for all – from
instituting long-awaited reforms in the way government works,
practicing prudent economic management towards a strong and
resilient economy, to pouring out investments in people-centered
development programs and enhancing national resiliency – we faced
the pandemic with our governance, economy, and social services
stronger than ever. All these laid a strong foundation for our country
to uphold the primacy of life in the midst of a global health emergency.

As our country is being tested like never before in recent history, this
pandemic has undeniably brought out the best in the Filipino. Thus, as
your President, I would like to thank you all from the bottom of my
heart for the trust, solidarity, and resiliency. To those who selflessly
provided medical and health-related frontline services; those who
ensured the steady supply of food, water, and basic utilities to our
households; those who kept the peace and order in our communities;
those who manned and kept essential establishments operational;
those who kept our communities clean; the Good Samaritans who

iii
 rushed to the aid of the afflicted and needy; and those who faithfully
adhered to health protocols for the safety of all, daghang salamat po!

Admittedly, the government cannot do it without your help. Everyone’s

cooperation and support is needed. Together, we shall continue to
fight this pandemic with the same fervor we had exhibited in the
past four years. If at all, this adversity has reignited within each and
everyone of us the unique Filipino traits of bayanihan, panaghiusa
and malasakit. With the indomitable Filipino spirit, we shall bounce
back and tread the path towards a better normal for everyone.

Mabuhay tayong lahat!

RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

iv
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword iii

I Buhay Muna: Managing the Pandemic and its Impact

CHAPTER 1 Managing the Global Pandemic

Responding to COVID-19 3
Cushioning the Impact of the Pandemic 10
Ensuring Food and Water Security 13
Providing Essential Services to the People 17
Way Forward: A Whole-of-Nation Approach in Managing COVID-19 21

CHAPTER 2 Reinforcing the Spirit of Bayanihan

Heroes in Our Midst 23

LGUs Stepped Up to the Plate 24
A Solid Partnership 26
Good Deeds from Good Samaritans 27

II Uplifting the Living Conditions of the Filipino People:

Our Milestones and Accomplishments, 2016-1029

CHAPTER 3 Making Government More Responsive

Effectively Responding to Public Concerns 35
Making Government Transactions Easier 38
Intensifying the Fight against Corruption 44
Promoting Budget Transparency 46
Sustaining Reforms in Revenue-Generating Agencies 48
Maintaining Good Governance in the Public Corporate Sector 51
Building Trust through Access to Public Information 52
Way Forward: Towards Greater Transparency and Responsiveness 54
of Services to the Public

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CHAPTER 4 Providing for the People’s Basic Needs
Achieving Food Security through Sustainable Agriculture 56
Providing Clean Water, Decent Housing, and Sustainable Energy 65
Ensuring Greater Access to Quality Education and Training 74
Sustaining the Provision of Social Safety Nets 79
Ensuring Access to Responsive Health Care for All 86
Fostering Secure and Meaningful Livelihood 89
Making Financial Services More Accessible to All Filipinos 95
Way Forward: Empowering People Towards a Better Normal 99

CHAPTER 5 Safeguarding the Dividends of Peace and Security

Winning the Fight Against Insurgency and Terrorism 102
Seizing the Momentum of Peace in Mindanao 105
Upholding Public Safety 109
Strengthening the Military and the Police 112
Fostering International Partnerships for Peace, Security, and Development 115
Way Forward: Soldiering on Towards the Path of Peace, Security, 123
and Development

III Towards a Better Normal for All

CHAPTER 6 Adapting to the New Normal

Rebooting the Economy 128
Reforming the Transportation Sector 134
Restructuring the Education Sector 140
Way Forward: Towards a Safer and Better Philippines 147
under the Next Normal
CHAPTER 7 Dispersing Economic Activities for a Balanced Regional Development
Empowering the People through ICT 150
Enhancing Connectivity 150
Enhancing Inclusive and Responsive Regional Growth 155
Way Forward: Towards an Equitable and Sustainable Development 170

CHAPTER 8 Ensuring the Filipino’s Well-Being and Resiliency

Strengthening the Health Sector 172
Mitigating the Impact of Natural Hazards 182
Protecting the Environment and Advancing Sustainable Development 187
Way Forward: Towards a Legacy of Ensuring the Well-being and Resilience 194
of Filipinos
x
Conclusion
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 LIST OF TABLES
Table no.
1.1 List of Mega Swabbing Centers (as of July 15, 2020)
1.2 COVID-19 Testing Capacity
1.3 Number of Human Resources for Health Hired to Respond to
COVID-19 Pandemic (as of July 21, 2020)
1.4 List of Mega LIGTAS COVID-19 Facilities (as of July 20, 2020)
1.5 Power and Demand Capacity (as of July 22, 2020)
3.1 Top 5 Agencies with the Highest Number of ARTA-related Reports
(June 2019-June 2020)
3.2 Compliant LGUs on BPLS Revised Standards
3.4 BATAS Accomplishments (July 2016-March 2020)
3.5 Top Agencies with the Highest Number of eFOI Requests
4.1 Philippine Ranking in the GFSI
4.2 Rice Supply Situation
4.3 RCEF Implementation Status
4.4 NFA Palay Procurement in Metric Tons (as of June 2020)
4.5 DA-ACPC Various SURE Programs
4.6 Consolidated Key Shelter Agencies Accomplishments (July 2016-June 2020)
4.7 Accomplishments of Community-Driven Programs (July 2016 to May 2020)
4.8 Philippines’ Installed and Dependable Capacities
4.9 Household Electrication (as of December 2019)
4.10 Other Assistance to Students
4.11 TVET Scholarship Programs (2015-February 2020)
4.12 TVET Accomplishments
4.13 Household Beneficiaries (as of May 2020)
4.14 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Packages
4.15 Household Beneficiaries of the Sustainable Livelihood Program
(2016 to 2nd Quarter 2020)
4.16 SFP Children Served (2016 to 2019)
4.17 SPISC Program Beneficiaries Served (2016 to 2019)
4.18 Legal Measures Implemented to Facilitate Financial Inclusion
5.2 CSBP Assistance to AFP and PNP Beneficiaries (as of June 2020)
5.3 Top Trading Partners
5.4 Mechanism with Non-Traditional Markets
6.1 Stages and Key Features of PH-Progreso
6.2 Some of the Proposed Reform Measures
6.3 Schedule of Opening of Classes Based on Learning Delivery
7.1 Additional Trains
7.2 Efforts to Ease Traffic Congestion in Metro Manila
7.3 Proposed Projects to Ease Congestion in Metro Cebu and Metro Davao
7.4 Number of Training and Assistance Provided to LGUs in CLUP
Formulation and Implementation
8.1 Health Outcomes in the National Objectives for Health 2017-2022
8.2 Philhealth’s Existing Case Rate Packages for COVID-19 and
Related Diseases
8.3 Plant, Plant, Plant Program Components and Projects

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 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure no.

1.1 Accredited COVID-19 Testing Laboratories per Region (as of July 21, 2020)
1.2 Apprehensions for Price Manipulation and Hoarding (as of July 11, 2020)
1.3 Show Cause Orders and Charges vs. LGU Officials and Personnel
(as of July 6, 2020)
3.1 Complaints Received by Hotline 8888 (Nov 2017 to June 2020)
3.2 Nature of ARTA-related Complaints
3.3 Passports Released (July 2016-2019)
3.4 Alternative Work Arrangements
3.5 Philippines’ OBS Performance
3.6 Reforms in the BOC
3.7 Collection Performance of the BOC 2016-2019 (in Billion PhP)
3.8 Accomplishments on Tax Monitoring and Enforcement (as of March 2020)
3.9 FOI Accomplishments
4.1 Value of Production in Agriculture
4.2 Philippine Palay Production
4.3 Agrarian Reform Accomplishments (July 2016 to May 2020)
4.4 Affordable Housing Loan Interest Rates
4.5 Government Assistance and Subsidy Programs
(Academic Year [AY] 2019-2020)
4.6 Scholarship Programs (Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act)
4.7 Fostering Competitiveness of HEIs
4.8 Target Household Beneficiaries vis-a-vis Program Budget
4.9 2015 and 2018 Poverty Incidence per Population
4.10 Malasakit Centers (as of July 2020)
4.11 Number of Clients Served by LinGap sa MaSa (as of March 2020)
4.12 Underemployment and Unemployment rate (2016 to 2019)
4.13 Accomplishments on Employment Facilitation Program
(July 2016 to March 2020)
4.14 Accomplishments on Programs on the Protection of Worker’s Rights and
Maintenance of Industrial Peace (July 2016 to March 2020)
4.15 Accomplishments on Workers Protection and Welfare Program
(July 2016 to March 2020)
4.16 Accomplishments on Empowerment and Protection of OFWs
(July 2016 to March 2020)
4.17 PLEA Program Performance (as of May 2020)
4.18 CLEA Program Performance (as of May 2020)
5.1 E-CLIP Accomplishments as of June 30, 2020
5.2 Anti-Criminality Accomplishments (as of December 2019)
5.3 Results of Anti-illegal Drug Operations (July 2016 to June 2020)
5.4 Total Trade (2016-2019) (in US$ Billion)
5.5 IPA-Approved Investment (2016-2019) (in PhP Billion)
6.1 Gross Domestic Product Year-On-Year Growth Rates (2019 TO Q1 2020)
6.2 Business Name Registration of Businesses Involved in Retail Sale via
Internet (January to June 2020)
6.3 Physical Distancing in PUVs
6.4 Gradual Opening of Public Transportation in Areas under GCQ
6.5 Public Transport Allowed to Operate as of July 5, 2020
6.6 Transformation of EDSA Design Approach
6.7 Key Modernization Initiatives in the Transport Sector
6.8 Passenger Riding Capacity under GCQ
6.9 Airports Allowed to Resume Flights as of July 16, 2020

viii
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure no.
6.10 Enrollment as of July 17, 2020
6.11 Enrollment Procedures in HEIs
6.12 LANDBANK ACADEME Program
7.1 RoRo Routes Opened and Port Projects Previously Inaugurated
7.2 Select Completed and Ongoing Airport Projects
7.3 Night-rating of Airports in the Philippines
7.4 Select Ongoing Projects under the LSEN
7.5 Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX)
7.6 Bridges to Decongest EDSA
7.7 RAPID Growth Project Location Map
7.8 Breakdown of Operating Economic Zones Outside Metro Manila
7.9 BP2 Program Framework Key Areas and Objectives
7.10 Progress Points for the Implementation of Pipeline or Existing Programs,
Projects, or Activities (PPAs) under BP2
8.1 Health Sector Budget from 2016 to 2020
8.2 Top 10 Countries with the Highest Risk Due to Extreme Climate Events
8.3 Salient Facts on Recent Disasters That Affected the Philippines
8.4 Ten Focus Points for Resilience
8.5 Accomplishments Under the Boracay Island Rehabilitation
8.6 Accomplishments Under The Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program

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 PRP
2016
2020

B UH AY M UNA:
M A N AG I N G
T H E PA N D E M I C
A N D I T S I M PACT
• Managing the Global Pandemic
• Reinforcing the Spirit of Bayanihan

Photo Credit: National Incident Command, National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NIC, NTF COVID-19)

1
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

“We only have one

common enemy and
that is COVID-19. Our
transparency, integrity,
accountability, and
responsiveness are
needed. As President,
I assure you that the
government will be on
top of this situation at all
times. We will not leave
anyone behind.”

- The President’s
statement, Talk to the
People on COVID-19,
March 24, 2020.

Photo Credit: PCOO

Managing the
Chapter
Global Pandemic
1 Our world is at a crucial moment in history as
humanity battles the coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19). The global pandemic threatens our
safety. It continues to disrupt and significantly alter
our way of life. There has been no exact precedent
and manual on winning this battle.

Before the pandemic struck, we had collectively

worked hard to bring forth real long-term reforms
toward a comfortable life for all Filipinos. These
reforms provided us with the buffer we needed to
tackle head-on our immense challenges.

When the COVID-19 struck our country with the

2
 PRP
2016
2020

first-ever recorded case on January 30, As we continue to weather this storm,

2020, 1 we already had in place social we remain steadfast and focused on
safety nets and mechanisms that could addressing the most pressing needs of
be scaled up to manage the pandemic. our people. To the best of our abilities,
As the effects of the disease unfolded, I we shall improve our healthcare
knew that the strength of our economy system to enable it to better serve our
and our institutions could carry us people; ensure that basic necessities
through this challenge. Thus, I made and safety nets are accessible to all;
the difficult decision — Bag-o ang and deliver essential government
tanan, buhay muna. services to the public.

Responding to COVID-19

Following the confirmation of the stricter health protocols. Establishments

first COVID-19 case, the government started checking the temperature of their
immediately imposed a travel ban on guests and requested them to sanitize
visitors coming from Wuhan City and before entry. With these simple yet
the entire Hubei Province of China. practical strategies, we momentarily
Three days after our first confirmed case, managed to prevent the further spread
on February 2, 2020, the government of the virus in the country until the
recorded its second case of the first local transmission was confirmed
deadly virus within our jurisdiction, on March 7, 2020. 3 From then on,
which was also tagged as the first the cases grew, albeit at a relatively
COVID-19-related death in the controlled pace.
Philippines and outside the virus-hit
China. 2 On the same day, I declared a On March 8, 2020, I issued Proclamation
travel ban to and from China, including no. 922, declaring a State of Public
its special administrative regions, Health Emergency throughout the
Hong Kong and Macau. It was a country due to COVID-19. As the
tough decision considering its impact cases increased, I declared on March
on tourism and related businesses. 16, 2020 a State of National Calamity
However, I would always decide for for the next six months through
the greater good of our people. Proclamation no. 929. Then, on March
17, 2020, upon the advice of the Inter-
With the intention of halting the Agency Task Force on the Management
outbreak, we immediately implemented of Emerging Infectious Diseases

1 DOH Press Release, March 10, 2020.

2 World Health Organization, Situation Report-13, February 2, 2020.
3 DOH Press Release, March 7, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

(IATF-MEID), I placed the entire

Luzon under Enhanced Community
Quarantine (ECQ). This suspended
classes in all levels and mass public
transport facilities, prohibited mass
gatherings, and imposed stricter
home quarantines. Subsequently, we
implemented community quarantines
in other areas, mobilized healthcare
facilities and resources, and enforced
social distancing protocols within
communities. 4

A member of the Philippine Coast Guard

With the overwhelming support of both administers an RT-PCR swab to an OFW at the
houses of Congress, Republic Act (RA) NAIA Terminal 2.
no. 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19

One Act was signed into law on March

24, 2020 to serve as the blueprint in
our fight against COVID-19. I directed
the IATF-MEID to respond accordingly officials to do everything within our
to this highly evolving pandemic.5 I means to obtain adequate medical
also realigned PhP275 billion from the supplies and the technology to be able
2019 and 2020 General Appropriations to run tests on our own.
for COVID-19 response. 6 Through
the concerted bayanihan efforts of the From just one testing laboratory at the
government and the people, the multi- start of the pandemic in January 2020, we
sectoral management and response to have 91 accredited testing laboratories
the COVID-19 pandemic throughout nationwide as of July 20, 2020.7 Of this
the entire archipelago was placed in number, 68 are Reverse Transcription-
full swing. Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
licensed and 23 are Licensed Gene Xpert
Increasing Testing Capacity laboratories. A total of 92 laboratories
are still undergoing certification. 8
To manage and combat COVID-19, we While the National Capital Region
embarked on a Test, Trace, and Treat (NCR) has the most number of
(T3) strategy. Fully aware of the need licensed laboratories nationwide, more
to improve our testing capabilities, regional laboratories are on their way to
I immediately directed our health becoming accredited.

4 PNA, “No One Goes Hungry amid COVID-19 crisis,” March 31, 2020.
5 IATF-MEID Resolution No. 01, January 28, 2020.
6 PNA, “No One Goes Hungry amid COVID-19 crisis,” March 31, 2020.
7 DOH, July 21, 2020.
8 Ibid.

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2016
2020

As our testing laboratories increased, These efforts have accelerated the turn-
LEGEND (WITH NATIONWIDE TOTALS)
we were
No. of also Testing
Accredited able Laboratories:
to procure 85 PCR around time of our COVID-19 testing
kits. Out of the 252,951 orderedof and
(with total maximum daily testing capacity 50,906) from two weeks back in March to only 2-3
awarded kits, 75,153 kits, which can be days starting June10 and as of July 18, 2020.
used to perform 4,119,416 tests, have
been delivered to the government as To aid laboratories in collecting
of July 16, 2020. The remaining 177,798 samples, we have set up mega swabbing
kits, which can perform more than ten centers by converting big venues
million tests, are ready for delivery.9 meant for major gatherings, such as

Figure 1.1 Accredited COVID-19 Testing Laboratories per Region

(as of July 21, 2020)
Legend Total No. of Accredited Testing Laboratories: 91
Total Maximum Daily Testing Capacity: 64,603

REGION I REGION II REGION III

4 458 1 1,526 8 9,818

CAR REGION IV-A

2 1,476 9 2,223
NCR REGION V

38 29,876 2 1,504
REGION IV-B REGION VIII

2 204 2 1,048
REGION VI REGION XIII

4 2,871 0 0
REGION VII REGION X

6 7,830 3 1,018
REGION IX REGION XI

3 1,008 3 3,254
BARMM REGION XII

1 51 3 438
Source: DOH

9 NIC, NTF COVID-19, July 16, 2020.

10 BCDA, IATF-MEID Meeting, June 29, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Table 1.1 List of Mega Swabbing

Centers (as of July 15, 2020)
No. of
Mega Swabbing Center Testing
Booths
Philippine Sports Stadium -
96
Philippine Arena
DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña with
Dr. Raul Destura of the University of the
Mall of Asia Arena 72
Philippines- National Institutes of Health (UP-
NIH), Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, Executive Vice
Palacio de Maynila 65 President, UP, and Dr. Cynthia Saloma, Head
of the Philippine Genome Center during the
Enderun Tent 56 launching of UP-NIH test kits on March 12, 2020.
Photo Credit: DOST
Source: NIC, NTF COVID-19

the Philippine Sports Stadium in the are now being used across the country.
Philippine Arena, the Mall of Asia To complement this effort and ensure
Arena, the Palacio de Maynila, and the the speedy collection of COVID-19
Enderun Tent (see Table 1.1). samples, we have established
specimen collection booths developed
I would like to commend the by DOST research institutions and the
University of the Philippines (UP) for department’s partners in the academe
developing COVID-19 test kits, which and industry. 11

Table 1.2 COVID-19 Testing Capacity

As of May 5, 2020 As of July 20, 2020

Accredited Testing Laboratories 23 91
• Maximum Testing Capacity per day 6,170 64,603
• Turn-around Time 2 to 3 days
Highest Daily Testing Output 6,902 27,985
Total Tests Conducted 138,624 1,191,216
Unique Individual Tested 124,836 1,109,242
Remaining Test Supplies 233,390 2,325,422
Source: DOH

11 DOST, July 17, 2020.

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2016
2020

As of July 20, 2020, a total of 1,191,216 tracing solution, which helps offices
tests have been conducted on 1,109,242 and other establishments operate
individuals12 nationwide (see Table 1.2). safely. As of July 20, 2020, some 166,466
We are steadily ramping up our capacity close contacts of confirmed cases have
to test more broadly for us to have a been traced and assessed. 14
more accurate picture of the COVID-19
situation in the country. Capacitating Treatment Hospital
and Facilities
Intensifying Contact Tracing
The imposition of community
We are fully aware that contact quarantines gave us time to build up
tracing is crucial in controlling the the capacity of our medical facilities.
spread of COVID-19 in communities. As of July 20, 2020, there were 1,934
Thus, we instituted contact tracing COVID-19 referral and accepting
efforts through the collaboration hospitals nationwide. 15 A total of
of our Barangay Health Emergency 15,247 intensive care unit, isolation
Response Teams, Local Government and ward beds and 1,896 mechanical
and Provincial Health Offices, and ventilators have been dedicated for
the DOH. Through this, we were able COVID-19 patients. As of July 20,
to map out the location of COVID-19 2020, about 51 percent of these beds
cases and identify hotspots and zones and 26 percent of these ventilators
where new cases are emerging. were in use nationwide. 16

We are continuously stepping up our As we continue to upgrade our

contact tracing efforts. As of July hospitals’ capacity, we need more
15, 2020, we have organized 5,403 healthcare professionals to help us in
contact-tracing teams with 68,884 this fight. Hence, I directed the DOH
members. 13 We are also developing at to hire more healthcare workers to
least two contact-tracing applications: reinforce the frontlines. As of July
StaySafePH, which enables people 21, 2020, the DOH has hired 5,279 of
to report their health condition and the 8,694 positions in 307 facilities
possible exposures through their nationwide 17 (see Table 1.3).
smartphones; and the Safe Pass, an
all-digital contact-free authorizing, To equip our healthcare workers with
business-scheduling, and contact- the necessary tools, the government

12 DOH, COVID-19 Tracker, July 20, 2020.

13 NIC, NTF COVID-19, July 21, 2020.
14 Ibid.
15 DOH, COVID-19 Tracker, July 20, 2020.
16 Ibid.
17 DOH, HRH Augmentation Report No. 92, July 21, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

partnered with the private sector to

provide adequate personal protective
and medical equipment. So far, the
DOH has procured 6,316,849 personal
protective equipment (PPE) sets, of
which 2,689,122 or 43.89 percent have
been delivered as of July 14, 2020.18 The
target completion of PPE deliveries is
set on August 26, 2020. The DOH has
also requested the DBM to procure 10.36
million sets of PPEs worth PhP20.72 billion
for the next two to three months. 19
National Action Plan against COVID-19 Chief
Implementer Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr., and
Table 1.3 Number of Human Deputy Chief Implementer PA Vince Dizon
during a meeting with the SOCCSKSARGEN
Resources for Health (HRH) Hired Regional IATF-MEID on May 26, 2020
to Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19
(as of July 21, 2020)
HRH Number
Deputized Physician 23 The DOST has initiated and funded
various projects to localize the
Nurse 1,985
production of equipment for the
Medical Technologist 840 protection of our healthcare workers
and treatment of COVID-19 patients.
Respiratory Therapist 121 These include ventilators, sanitizing
Radiologic Technologist 204 chambers, self-contained disinfecting
cubicles, thermal scanners, face masks,
Pharmacist 27 and face shields. 20
Nutritionist-Dietitian 5
We directed our local chief executives
Medical Specialist 83 to establish quarantine and isolation
Medical Officer 352 facilities. Local Isolation and General
Treatment Areas for COVID-19 cases
Others 1,639 or simply called LIGTAS COVID were
Total 5,279 set up to serve as temporary treatment
and monitoring facilities. These
Source: DOH facilities are mainly dedicated for

18 DOH, July 17, 2020.

19 DBM, May 15, 2020.
20 DOST, July 17, 2020.

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 PRP
2016
2020

quarantine or isolation of suspected Various health researches on the use

COVID-19 cases. As of July 20, 2020, of virgin coconut oil (VCO), tawa-tawa,
the total bed capacity in community- lagundi, and high-dose melatonin as
managed LIGTAS COVID facilities was supplementary treatment for COVID-19,
at 126,933 while the total bed capacity and bio-surveillance of disease
in Mega LIGTAS COVID facilities transmission in the country were started
managed by the national government, by our local scientists from the DOST
which include the remodeled BRP Ang and local institutions.22 The country is
Pangulo and a port terminal, stood at also participating in the WHO Solidarity
2,742 21 (see Table 1.4). Treatment Trials while five hospitals in

Table 1.4 Mega LIGTAS COVID-19 Facilities (as of July 20, 2020)
Facility Location Bed Capacity
Ninoy Aquino Stadium Manila 112
Rizal Memorial Coliseum Manila 97
Quezon Institute Quezon City 112
Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Pasay City 208
World Trade Center Pasay City 450
PhilSports Arena Pasig City 132
Philippine Arena (Tent and Villa) Bulacan 187
ASEAN Convention Center Clark, Pampanga 120
National Government Administrative Center New Clark City, Tarlac 360
NCC Athlete’s Village (Buildings A and B) New Clark City, Tarlac 369
Las Piñas Rehabilitation Center Las Piñas City 55
Filinvest Tent Muntinlupa City 103
Alonte Sports Complex Biñan, Laguna 68
IC3 COVID-19 TTMF Cebu City 130
Eva Macapagal Super Terminal Pier 15, Manila 211
Presidential Yacht BRP Ang Pangulo (ACS-25) Pier 13, Manila 28
Total 2,742
Sources: DOTr and NIC, NTF COVID-19

21 NIC, NTF COVID-19, July 21, 2020.

22 DOST, July 17, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Metro Manila and Cebu, namely, the

Philippine General Hospital, Research
Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila
Doctors Hospital, San Lazaro Hospital,
and Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical
Center, will also serve as initial trial sites
for vaccines undergoing clinical trial.23

Given the continuous increase in the

number of cases, we are boosting our
testing capacity for early detection,
immediate isolation, and effective
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año and
treatment. We are putting all our efforts Sec. Galvez inspect the first RT-PCR Test
together to ensure that our management laboratory set up by the Philippine Red
and response to this emergency will Cross in Mandaluyong City.
Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19
continually improve towards a safer
and healthier Philippines.

Cushioning the Impact of the Pandemic

The pandemic’s challenges made me safety nets. Empowered by bayanihan

as resolute as ever in addressing the of the Filipino nation, we launched
most pressing needs of our people. In the largest and widest social
the face of such a formidable public protection program in the country’s
health emergency, the government history.
has remained committed to ensure
our peoples’ survival with everything Emergency Support for Vulnerable
at our disposal. Groups and Individuals

The national government, together Social Amelioration Program (SAP).

with the local government units The SAP was implemented to
(LGUs), the private sector, and other ensure the provision of safety nets,
stakeholders worked collaboratively emergency subsidies, and other
to carry out assistance programs to social protection programs to the
cushion the adverse impact of the impoverished sectors of the country
COVID-19 pandemic, particularly and mitigate the socio-economic
in terms of food security and social effects of the pandemic.

23 DOH Press Conference, July 8, 2020.

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utility vehicle drivers and operators.

On June 11, 2020, we commenced the
distribution of the second tranche,
with payout to 2.50 million or 28.83
percent of the 8.67 million target-
beneficiaries. 26 Likewise, 1.11 million
or 17 percent of the 6.52 million target
waitlisted or left out beneficiaries
received their cash subsidy starting
June 16, 2020. 27

Learning from the challenges

DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista encountered during the distribution
leads the distribution of emergency cash
subsidy in Marikina City. of the first tranche of cash aid, we
Photo Credit: DSWD launched the Relief Agad application
on May 14, 2020 to facilitate faster
and efficient automated cash aid
distribution. We also tapped various
Under the SAP, we set aside PhP206 financial service providers (FSPs)
billion for poor and low-income to facilitate digital payment of the
households who were badly affected emergency cash subsidy. 28
by the current pandemic, including
the wage earners who thrive on a “no- Assistance to Senior Citizens. As of
work, no-pay” arrangement. 24 July 21, 2020, 2.75 million indigent
senior citizens have been provided
Emergency Subsidy Program. This with PhP3,000 stipend each for the
program provides cash or non- first semester of the current year. 29
cash subsidy to around 18 million
household beneficiaries ranging from Assistance to Individuals in Crisis
PhP5,000 to PhP8,000 per month for two Situation. In addition to the SAP,
months for the purchase of basic food we helped 274,805 individuals at the
and medicine. 25 outset of community quarantine by
providing them with medical, burial,
For the first tranche, we provided food, transportation, educational, and
cash subsidy to 17,651,960 household- other support services in the total
beneficiaries, including 98,132 public amount of PhP1.18 billion. 30

24 DSWD, July 16, 2020.

25 Ibid.
26 DSWD, July 22, 2020.
27 Ibid.
28 DSWD, July 16, 2020.
29 DSWD, July 22,2020.
30 Ibid.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

COVID-19 Adjustment Measures

Program (CAMP) for the Formal
Sector. CAMP is a safety net program
for affected formal sector workers, in
the amount of PhP5,000. All 657,201
target affected workers were served as
of May 20, 2020. 31

Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating

Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers
Barangay Ko, Bahay Ko Disinfection/
Sanitation Project (TUPAD #BKBK).
TUPAD #BKBK is a community-based
CAMP beneficiaries receive their financial
safety net program that provides
assistance.
temporary wage employment to the Photo Credit: DOLE
informal economy and displaced
marginalized workers who lost their
livelihood or whose earnings were
compromised due to the COVID-19 rate loan assistance given to
pandemic. We have served all the eligible borrowers affected by the
337,198 target beneficiaries under the implementation of the ECQ. Borrowers
program as of June 1, 2020. 32 may apply for a loan amounting to a
maximum of PhP25,000. As of July 21,
Financial Subsidy for Rice Farmers 2020, 31,497 MSFFs or 78.74 percent
Program (FSRF). FSRF is a one- of the 40,000 target beneficiaries have
time financial assistance program, been provided with PhP788 million in
providing P5,000.00 to rice farmers total loans. 35
with farm sizes ranging from one
hectare and below. We provided PhP3 Expanded SURE Aid and Recovery Project
billion worth of assistance to 591,246 33 (SURE COVID-19) for Agri-Based Micro
target farmer beneficiaries. 34 and Small Enterprises (MSEs). We also
intensified the provision of concessionary
Survival and Recovery (SURE) loans to our affected MSEs. As of July
Assistance Program for Marginalized, 21, 2020, we have served 93 MSEs or 62
Small Farmers and Fishers (MSFFs). percent of 150 target beneficiaries with
SURE Aid is a zero percent interest loans totaling PhP645.85 million.36

31 DOLE, July 17, 2020.

32 Ibid.
33 This includes assistance given to farmer beneficiaries since February 2020, DA, July 18, 2020.
34 DA, July 18, 2020.
35 DA, July 22, 2020.
36 Ibid.

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“Natanggap na po namin ang ayudang

galing po sa ating DA. Pinapaabot
po namin ang taos-puso naming
pasasalamat. Malaking tulong po ito sa
aming pamilya.”

Sharon Baluto, Member, Pury Rice Farmers’

Association, San Antonio, Quezon

Photo Credit: DA

Small Business Wage Subsidy 30-Day Grace Period for Loans and
Program. Under the program, we Rent. To help ease the financial burden
provided a wage subsidy ranging of Filipinos during these difficult
from PhP5,000 to PhP8,000 (based times, I directed all lenders to grant a
on the regional minimum wage) per 30-day grace period or extension for
month to low- to medium-middle the payment of all loans, including
class eligible employees. Under credit card payments and pawnshop
the first and second tranches of the loans, falling due within the ECQ
program, all target beneficiaries period, without slapping interest or
numbering 3.09 million employees any additional charges and fees on the
and 3.06 million employees were borrowers.
served, respectively. 37

Ensuring Food and Water Security

At the onset of the pandemic, one of Maintaining the Unhampered Flow
my priority concerns was ensuring of Goods and Essential Supplies
people’s access to food and water.
We immediately pursued measures to To minimize disruption in the food
secure food supply and mitigate the value chain, we issued an order
pandemic’s impact across the food on March 19, 2020 to facilitate the
value chain. unhampered movement of all cargoes,

37 DOF, June 27, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

agriculture and fishery inputs, food every Filipino household. Due to

products, and agribusiness personnel our management of the rice supply,
nationwide, and the continuance of we did not experience any shortage
farming and fishing activities. 38 during this lean season despite the
public health emergency. We project
To expedite the movement of food and that at year ’s end, we will still have an
agri-fishery products from production ending rice inventory of 78-94 days.
areas to consumer areas, we issued
253,332 Food Passes and Local With the nationwide implementation
Transport Permits to delivery trucks of community quarantines, we
and other vehicles transporting these immediately released rice to the
products. The food pass is a privilege DSWD and LGUs. From March 16 to
given to suppliers and truckers that June 23, 2020, the NFA distributed
go to, from, and/or through Metro 223,484 metric tons or 4.47 million
Manila and other regions to ensure bags of rice nationwide.
their free movement. We also launched
the DA-Hotline 1381 (AGRI) to help Through the Food Resiliency Action
with concerns related to movement of Plan, the DA ensured the availability
agri-fishery products and inputs. 39 of food supplies by minimizing supply
chain disruption. The plan takes into
In addition, we made sure that 126 consideration Metro Manila’s weekly
ports nationwide continued to operate, demand for basic food commodities.
and adopted port emergency measures
for the uninterrupted flow of import To ensure the availability of food
cargo at the Manila International especially in areas still under
Container Terminal. From March 25 community quarantine, while at the
to July 10, 2020, we facilitated 38,189 same time marketing the products of
flights to ensure the uninterrupted local farmers, we extended the Kadiwa
supply of food, medicine, and other ni Ani at Kita (KADIWA) Program in
essential goods. 40 other areas of the country. KADIWA
is a market system, which sells major
Ensuring Food Accessibility and agricultural goods at reasonably low
Availability 41 prices to help poor Filipino households.
Under the KADIWA program, the
Aside from emergency subsidies, we total value of commodities traded
ensured adequate supply of rice for amounted to PhP302.63 million.

38 DA, July 18, 2020.

39 Ibid.
40 DOTr, July 18, 2020.
41 DA, July 18, 2020.

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We also implemented the Urban

Agriculture Program (UAP) aimed at
securing safe food for families in urban
areas and urging people to engage in
urban gardening. Under this program,
we provided assorted vegetable seeds,
KADIWA ni Ani at Kita Online (wholesale seedlings, and starter kits to affected
fruits and vegetables market online)
urban areas in almost all regions, and
• Served five cities in NCR and 242
municipalities nationwide training on urban vegetable gardening,
aquaponics, hydroponics, value chain,
KADIWA ni Ani at Kita Retail Selling and agri-preneurship.42 As of June
• Operated in seven DA locations 2020, the UAP has served about 387,154
within NCR and Rizal, and 880 households.43
municipalities nationwide and
sold agri-fishery products worth
PhP34.84 million In addition, food packs and essential
non-food items have been provided to
KADIWA Express LGUs nationwide for distribution to
• Delivered 122.33 Metric Tons (MT) of their constituents. As of July 21, 2020,
assorted commodities from various 1.44 million food packs have been
trading centers to designated drop
distributed.44
off points in NCR

eKADIWA (an online delivery platform) To protect consumers from hoarding,

• Served 700 Metro Manila profiteering and price manipulation, we
households by delivering fresh reactivated local price councils to enforce
produce, right at the doorsteps of the Suggested Retail Price (SRP) scheme
consumers and price freeze in Metro Manila for
KADIWA IsDA on the Go (provides the
agriculture and fishery and other basic
identified market outlets with steady commodities. We also enforced measures
fish supply at reasonable prices) to curtail hoarding and profiteering.45
• Sold 54.024 MT of fish amounting
to PhP9.3 million benefitting Our Bantay Presyo Task Force continues
191,847 families since April 2020 to enforce RA no. 7581 or The Price
Act throughout the country. The group
KADIWA Diskwento Karavan (KDK)
• Served 39,276 households and monitors and enforces SRPs of basic food
sold 37.30 MT of agri-fishery commodities, such as rice, fish, chicken,
products valued at PhP9.4 million pork, sugar, cooking oil, garlic, and
Source: DA onion in major markets nationwide.46

42 DA, July 18, 2020.

43 DA, July 19, 2020.
44 DSWD, July 22,2020.
45 DA, July 18, 2020.
46 Ibid.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

DA Secretary William Dar (rightmost) and DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez (third from right)
jointly inspect wet markets in Metro Manila to monitor compliance of vendors with the SRPs and
price freeze on basic commodities.
Photo Credit: DA

Assuring Adequate Water and capacity over peak demand in the

Energy Supply three power grids located in Luzon,
Visayas, and Mindanao.
To ensure continuous water supply in the
country, the government immediately While doing all these, the government
adopted measures to conserve and ordered all water and power
regulate water supply. We initiated cloud concessionaires and service providers
seeding operations in the Angat Water not to implement supply disconnection,
Reservoir and directed the Metropolitan especially during the ECQ (see Table 1.5).
Water Works and Sewerage System
(MWSS) to continue the activation of Table 1.5 Power and Demand
its existing deep wells.47 Similarly, the Capacity (as of July 22, 2020)
government allowed the automatic Actual
Available Excess
extension of all existing water treatment Peak
Capacity Capacity
storage facilities for more than 60 days, Demand
(MW) (MW)
(MW*)
especially for those whose registrations
expired during the ECQ period. Luzon 10,302 11,587 1,285

Visayas 1,835 2,466 631

We also ensured that the country’s
energy supply remains equally Mindanao 1,776 2,761 985
adequate. As of July 22, 2020, our Source: DOE
major power grids maintained excess *megawatt

47 NWRB, June 20, 2020.

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We also directed them to verify the to partner with the government in the
consumers’ actual consumption spirit of bayanihan by allowing the
patterns with observed discrepancies staggered payment of bills, cognizant
for necessary adjustments. of the fact that the implementation of
community quarantines nationwide
Finally, we urged all water and power has greatly affected the livelihood of
concessionaires and service providers many Filipino households.

Providing Essential Services to the People

Alongside our efforts to manage the 1,590,549 health workers nationwide.
health pandemic and its effects on our Furthermore, from only four hospitals
people, the government is continuously with dedicated buses on April 2,
providing essential services for the 2020, the DOTr has now provided
safety, security, and comfort of all. 12 major hospitals in NCR with
dedicated shuttle services. 48 Likewise,
Assistance to Frontline Workers we implemented the RapidPassPH
System on April 9, 2020 to expedite
I sincerely thank our medical frontline the movement of health workers at
workers—our first line of defense in designated checkpoints in the metro. 49
our fight against this global pandemic.
Saludo kami sa inyo. We honor your Aside from addressing the
invaluable contributions, hardwork, transportation needs of our modern-
and dedication, which saved countless day heroes, the government has
lives. Your efforts are the backbone of provided PhP100,000 each to 19 health
the country’s health system; and I will workers who have contracted severe
ensure that the national government is COVID-19 infection while in line of
with you in safeguarding the welfare of duty; and PhP1 million each to the
our people in your communities. surviving families of health workers
who have succumbed to the deadly
To ease the burden of commuting virus. 50
to work during the community
quarantine, I directed all agencies Moreover, as of June 15, 2020, the GSIS
concerned to deploy their transport has processed six Bayanihan Frontliners
resources for the use of our healthcare Fund (BFF) claims amounting to
workers. As of July 22, 2020, PhP3 million. The BFF provides an
the government has transported additional insurance coverage of

48 DOTr, April 2, 2020 and July 22, 2020, and MMDA and AFP, July 22, 2020.
49 DICT, RapidPassPH System Technical Report, July 15, 2020.
50 Report to the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee, June 15, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

PhP500,000 to 27,682 frontliners from

March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. 51

Finally, as of June 18, 2020, special risk

allowances in the amount of PhP246.69
million have been distributed to DOH
personnel, 25,692 of whom are regular
employees and 6,241 were hired under
contracts of service. 52

Access to Information and

Vital Communications Members of the Philippine Coast Guard
prepare their PPEs at the Mega Swabbing
Facility in the Palacio de Maynila.
In my regular talks to the nation, I Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19
and my fellow workers in the Cabinet
have been very transparent with
our strategies and plans because the Enforcement of Law and Order
people’s cooperation matters the most.
We provided details and context of We have witnessed how the global
the COVID-19 situation in simple and pandemic caused widespread riots
easily understandable terms because, in other countries. To prevent this
in this fight, no one should be left situation in our country, I have
behind. mobilized our soldiers and police
to ensure that law and order will be
I had long instructed the DOH to give upheld amidst this health pandemic.
daily updates on statistics through live
briefings, online publications, and strong
partnership with the press for widest
dissemination possible. In the same
vein, the Presidential Communications
Operations Office (PCOO) utilized
radio, television, social media, and
other online platforms to explain new
guidelines and developments relative to
community quarantines nationwide and
other procedures being implemented Contingent from the Philippine Navy
by the government in our fight against preparing to serve the Philippine Arena Mega
Swabbing Facility
the pandemic. Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19

51 Report to the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee, June 15, 2020.

52 Report to the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee, June 22, 2020.

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In the same spirit, I do not tolerate

Figure 1.2 Apprehensions for Price
those who take advantage of this
Manipulation and Hoarding
situation, particularly those who (as of July 11, 2020)
hoard and manipulate the price of
essential goods and services and take
cash aids that are intended to feed our
hungry countrymen.
974 PhP118.09
Price Act million worth
violators of items
Elected officials, city hall personnel,
arrested confiscated
and barangay staff are among those
who have been charged for anomalies
in SAP cash aid distribution. 53 Local Source: DTI
chief executives were also asked to
explain their poor performance in Protection and Support for
distributing the cash aid. I will never Displaced OFWs
allow acts of corruption and grave
abuses of discretion, most especially in Our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
crucial times like this. were among the hardest hit by the
onslaught of COVID-19. I understand
Figure 1.3 Show Cause Orders and their fear and uncertainty during these
Charges vs. LGU Officials and
times of great adversity. I hope that
Personnel (as of July 6, 2020)
our stimulus plan will alleviate their
plight. We shall continue to provide
406 them all the assistance they need to
LGU officials facing criminal start over here or abroad.
complaints for alleged mishandling
of SAP cash aid distribution, 178 of As of July 22, 2020, we have repatriated
whom are elected, and the rest are 96,874 OFWs; of whom, 42,174 were
LGU personnel seafarers and 54,700 were land-based
workers. 54 As soon as our OFWs set
166 foot in the country, we have them
undergo rapid tests to ensure that they
barangay officials facing administrative
are COVID-19-free. As they await the
cases for alleged violations of IATF-
MEID guidelines and protocols, such results, the DOT and Overseas Workers
as holding public gatherings and Welfare Administration (OWWA)
illegal gambling amid the pandemic provide room accommodation while
the DOH offers free mental health
Source: DILG

53 DILG, July 03, 2020.

54 DFA, July 22, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

services to help them adjust to

drastic changes brought about by the
COVID-19 pandemic. The DOTr then
transports them to their respective
provinces through the Hatid Probinsya
Para Sa OFWs Program. 55

The sudden loss of income is the biggest

challenge to repatriated OFWs. To
give them opportunities to start over,
we implemented the DOLE CAMP-Abot
Kamay ang Pagtulong sa OFWs (CAMP-
AKAP) wherein each repatriated OFW
was given PhP10,000. As of July 22, 2020,
86,070 repatriated OFWs received the “Salamat sa astig na
said cash assistance. For those who accommodation, OWWA!”
opted to stay abroad, the government - Jayson Rolle, 34 years old,
extended a one-time cash assistance repatriated OFW from Saudi Arabia
of US$200 under the CAMP-AKAP
for On-site OFWs. As of July 22, 2020,
122,994 OFWs have been assisted
through this program. 56 vocational trainers on emerging and
advanced technologies in the country. 57
Our OFWs can also take part in TESDA’s
Online Program, an alternative mode I also urged the CHED and TESDA,
of learning with 71 free online courses in coordination with the DOLE and
to effectively assist them to transition OWWA, to come up with a special
to jobs that are highly in-demand in scholarship program for qualified
these times. The free skills training dependents of our OFWs. I also asked
provided by TESDA increases the the DA to come up with appropriate
chances of our displaced workers, agri-business projects to help
including our returning OFWs, to be displaced OFWs under the agency’s
absorbed into the economy again. Plant, Plant, Plant Program. Further, I
Moreover, as part of the government’s asked the Land Bank of the Philippines
reintegration program for returning (LBP) and other government financial
OFWs, the TESDA will tap them institutions to continue providing
as technical experts or technical- low-interest loans to our OFWs.

55 DOTr, July 16, 2020.

56 DOLE, July 22, 2020.
57 TESDA, July 10, 2020.

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Way Forward: A Whole-of-Nation Approach in

Managing COVID-19

The health emergency has indeed I acknowledge that the government

disrupted our way of life but it shall cannot single-handedly fight the
never dampen our spirit. In fact, it has pandemic. It entails a concerted effort
fortified our solidarity as a people. from all of us. The cooperation of
everyone is needed as we maintain a
We find inspiration from such unity heightened sense of urgency, reinforce
to continue improving our approach our systems, and change our lifestyles
in managing this pandemic. We have towards the next normal.
learned a lot and will address our
weaknesses to make things better In this difficult time, rest assured that
for future generations. An evolving your government is here with you.
crisis such as this requires us to utilize With the adversities that we face, we
a dynamic, inclusive, and holistic are called, now more than ever, to stand
approach. together in faith, prayer, and unity. I am
confident that we will surmount this
The LGUs have been placed in the challenge through our resilience and
best position to address the COVID-19 solidarity. Padayon ta.
situation in their jurisdictions through
the declaration of a National State of
Calamity or Proclamation no. 929. This
proclamation granted them access to
resources needed to overcome this
crisis and undertake urgent measures
to help their constituents.58 While
most of our LGUs have adequately
demonstrated readiness to handle
greater responsibilities during this
pandemic, I am extremely displeased
that some local government officials have
failed their constituents. Be that as it
may, I earnestly hope that this experience
serves as a wake-up call for all local and
national government officials to be more The President’s Talk to the People on COVID-19,
accountable in the management and July 7, 2020
Photo Credit: PCOO
response to disasters.

58 Proclamation no. 929, Declaring a State of Calamity Throughout the Philippines Due to Coronavirus Disease 2019, Official Gazette,
March 16, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

“I’d like to thank you

from the bottom of my
heart for helping us
provide the necessities
of the moment. Naubos
na po yung pagkasuplado
ko dahil sa COVID.
The COVID humbled
me with the kind of
response that you gave,
showed to the public.”

- The President’s Talk to the

People, May 04, 2020

Photo Credit: Benyu Friends, UST

Reinforcing the
Chapter
Spirit of Bayanihan
2 Bayanihan stands for our culture’s most essential
value of working together to achieve a common goal
for the common good.

Thus, our clarion call - the Bayanihan to Heal as One

Act, or the Bayanihan Act, which, after thorough
and careful preparation by our legislators, I signed
into law on March 24, 2020 as Republic Act no. 11469.
The law was named befitting of what it symbolizes.
Passed in record time, the law is in itself a testament
of bayanihan between the executive and the legislative
branches of government.

22
 PRP
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The Bayanihan Act is our testament

of national solidarity. It upholds our
timeless Filipino value of taking care of
each other in times of need, especially
those who are sick, vulnerable, and
unable to sustain themselves and their
families during this difficult time in
our life as a nation.

Heroes in Our Midst

In the spirit of bayanihan, many

heroic individuals answered our call
for help and cooperation. Foremost “Our countrymen are our
are our kind and strong-hearted most potent weapons in this
health workers, to whom we owe our war against COVID-19.”59
Photo Credit: PCOO
deepest gratitude. Their sacrifices are
invaluable, and the services they are
selflessly and tirelessly rendering for
our country will be etched forever in We know their sacrifice is priceless.
our memories and hearts. It is only We only want them to know that their
right to rally behind and give the government is here for them. In fact,
necessary support to them, our heroes. I have declared the year 2020 as the
“Year of Filipino Health Workers”
through Proclamation no. 976, which I
signed last July 6, in recognition of the
vital role of our health workers.

Also worthy of praise are our other

frontliners in these extraordinary
times. I refer to the players in our
country’s food supply chain such
Opening of the Philippine Arena, the
as the farmers, fishers, producers,
largest of the four Mega Swabbing transporters to include cargo handlers
Facilities established by government in
partnership with the private sector. and drivers, retailers, food vendors;
Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19 our social and barangay workers

59 President Duterte in a televised speech after the March16, 2020 Meeting with the IATF-MEID at the Malacañan Palace.

23
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

who helped distribute financial and

relief assistance to our poorest and
most needy; the valiant soldiers
and policemen who ensured peace
and order in our communities; the
personnel manning our government
offices to render frontline services to
the public; the people who kept open
our supermarkets and groceries, food Health workers and other frontliners at
the Golden Gate Batangas Hospital receive
businesses like fastfood chains and PPE donations
restaurants, delivery services, banks, Photo Credit: Benyu Friends
gasoline stations, and many other
essential establishments; and the
garbage collectors who risked their COVID-19 efforts. For all your
own health to help manage our waste selflessness and kindness, thank you.
and prevent health and environmental
issues.
LGUs Step Up to
There are also the noble volunteers
the Plate
augmenting our frontliners; and
the good-hearted, indefatigable The spirit of bayanihan also pushed
civil society organizations doing our LGUs, especially the mayors and
humanitarian work and calling barangay leaders, to initiate their
for contributions to support our own response measures to contain
the effects of COVID-19 and its
impact to their constituents. Many
have heeded my call to implement
urgent measures and utilized
resources to protect our poor and
most vulnerable. I thank those
among them who ensured that no
one is left behind.

I also recognize the LGUs who

properly and promptly distributed
our emergency cash aid and relief
A PGH frontliner inspects his goggles assistance to support the daily
before resuming his duties.
Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19 food and basic medical needs of the
poorest and most vulnerable among
their constituents. More than this, I
commend their initiatives including

24
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2020

their Market on Wheels or Mobile continuing education amidst the crisis.

Palengke, Mobile Botika, Mobile Our LGUs’ strict implementation
Kitchen, Libreng Sakay, Gadgets Pang of quarantine protocols, conduct of
Eskwela, Internet Connectivity down training and awareness on COVID-19,
to the Barangay programs, and more. disinfection and misting operations in
Some of them even harvested their own public places, capacity enhancement
palay, vegetables, livestock, poultry, of locally-funded hospitals and clinics
and marine products like shrimp, through the immediate purchase
bangus and tilapia from their ponds, of needed medical and testing
while others auctioned their precious equipment, medicines, supplements
personal possessions, including their and PPEs, contact tracing and massive
shoes and more, to bring aid to their mass testing, and the establishment
needy constituents. of quarantine or isolation and
accommodation facilities in their
These efforts not only nourished our localities have helped immensely in
people during these hard times, but containing the spread of the disease.
also allowed them their daily dose of
vitamins and maintenance medicines, For all these, I express my gratitude
and brought health workers and other to our local government officials and
frontliners to their workplaces to save personnel for being with us at the
lives. They also ensured the access of forefront of this fight against our
poor students to online information and common enemy -- the COVID-19.

Our Fallen Heroes

As of June 30, 2020, 127 of our fellow Filipinos who had served at the frontlines
-- 53 in the country [27 medical doctors, five nurses, four non-medical hospital
staff, nine police personnel, and eight government personnel]; and 74 abroad
[six medical doctors, 52 nurses, three homecare workers, three nurse assistants,
three therapists, two medical technicians, one pharmacist, and four non-
medical hospital staff] -- made the supreme sacrifice of giving up their lives in
the battle against COVID-19.

Let us honor their dignity, courage, and deep love for country and fellow
human beings.

Let us make their stories and memories live on.

Sources: DOH and PMS

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

A Solid Partnership

The current crisis is a test of our

solidarity and resilience as a
people and nation. As such, it is
most reassuring to see our private
sector rising up to the challenge by
partnering with the government as
it addresses the crisis. They offered
their support to various entities at
the frontline of our battle against
COVID-19 in so many ways — from Opening of the Palacio de Maynila swabbing
cash donations for the production of center
Photo Credit: NIC, NTF COVID-19
more coronavirus test kits; provision
of diagnostic kits, alcohol, and PPE to
hospitals and health centers, and free would help ensure sufficient supply
shuttle services for health workers and of food and basic necessities while the
other exempted persons; and raising government handled the COVID-19
of funds to acquire tents for use as situation.
isolation centers, and help workers
in the informal sector, which some To address the need for spaces and
celebrities have spearheaded; to big beds to accommodate COVID-19
businesses helping ensure sufficient patients, the MVP Group of Companies
supply of food and basic necessities partnered with the DPWH to make
and heeding the government’s appeal available a 300-bed COVID-19 mega-
to provide workers and employees treatment facility at the Philippine
their respective salaries and benefits Arena Complex owned by the Iglesia
during the community quarantine ni Cristo (INC) in Bocaue, Bulacan.
without charging them against their Meanwhile, in partnership with the
leave credits. 60 Ayala Group of Companies, the World
Trade Center was also converted
Our country’s big businesses were into a quarantine facility that could
among the early responders when we house 494 patients. These quarantine
implemented the lockdown in Luzon facilities, and many other similar but
and key cities of the Philippines. San smaller-scale COVID-19 facilities,
Miguel Corporation President Ramon augmented our hospitals’ capacity
Ang assured me that the company and capability to contain COVID-19.

60 Among the big businesses are San Miguel Corporation Group of Companies, Aboitiz Group of Companies, Asian/Terminal Hotel, Ayala
Group of Companies, JG Summit/Gokongwei Group of Companies, Jollibee Group of Companies, Lucio Tan Group of Companies, Manuel
V. Pangilinan Group of Companies, and SM Group of Companies. From “Private Sector’s COVID-19 Response Overwhelms Palace,” by
Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, 19 March 2020, Philippine News Agency.

26
 PRP
2016
2020

Our partners in the business I know that there are many more
community have since been working private companies and individuals
with the government to see avenues offering their resources and services
and means we can collaborate to to partner with our government. I
address the impact of COVID-19 and thank them for their generosity.
move our nation forward.

Good Deeds from Good Samaritans

Since the onset of the community Business tycoons together with
quarantine last March, even with work, volunteer groups of scientists,
classes and transportation suspended, doctors, nurses, medical technologists,
“Good Samaritans” — companies, engineers and architects, donated cash
groups and individuals, big and small, and in kind in the form of respirators
public and private, professionals and testing machines, booths and kits,
and volunteers, young and old, of quarantine or isolation facilities, and
whatever creed and color — have come medical tents with free professional
out of the comforts of their homes, services to sustain the COVID-19
workplaces, churches, schools so they operations of the DOH, hospitals,
can give their donations nationwide, clinics, and LGUs nationwide.
in cash or in kind, to the needy and the
most vulnerable, health workers and Fashion designers, artists,
other frontliners, hospitals and health dressmakers, housewives, and
facilities, displaced informal workers, students pooled their resources and
residents of affected communities, and their talents to create and deliver the
locally stranded individuals, among much-needed PPE for health workers,
others. other frontliners, COVID-positive
patients, and those exposed and are
There has been an outpouring of under monitoring.
food and nourishment assistance that
include sacks of rice, assorted meats Owners of hotels and similar
and vegetables, meal packs, grocery establishments offered free and/
packs, relief bags, and mobile kitchens. or discounted accommodations for
Lactating mothers launched their healthworkers and returning OFWs
breast milk drive to feed the needy while oil, gas, transport companies,
infants. Even drug companies and and private car owners generously
other generous individuals distributed offered free fuel, transportation
vitamins and medicines for those with and even free driving services for
existing medical conditions. healthworkers and other frontliners,

27
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

and for stranded and vulnerable tablets, and wi-fi internet connections
citizens. for schools and poor students.

Doctors and psychologists offered I am deeply thankful to all of you with

free telemedical consultations and generous hearts.
counselling services for those affected
and stressed out by the pandemic, and I also express my deep appreciation
also to keep them at home. for the benevolence of members of
the private sector who have chosen to
To ensure continuous learning and forfeit profit to help the government
education even during the pandemic, and the nation in our fight to overcome
there were those who provided COVID-19.
essential equipment such as laptops,

SM Group

• Mobilized over PhP300 million financial resources for COVID-19 efforts

• Provided PhP100 million worth of PPEs: full protective coveralls, face
shields, medical gloves, KN95 masks, surgical masks, goggles, and other
supplies
• Donated some 20 ICU-grade ventilators, three digital X-ray machines,
and one ultrasound machine to various hospitals
• Donated PhP10 million in cash to the Philippine General Hospital, and
laboratory supplies
• Made COVID-19 testing more widely accessible by providing RT-
PCR test kits, worth over 20,000 tests, to hospitals and LGUs; and in
partnership with Uniqlo, donated GenAmplify RT-PCR test kits, locally
developed by UP-NIH scientists
• Built six (6) Emergency Quarantine Facilities in police and military
camps in less than 10 days
• Conducted relief operations with Uniqlo to distribute 17,000 Kalinga
packs to indigent families across 80 poor communities
• Brought farmers’ produce directly to markets through the SM
Development Corporation
• Provided over PhP15 million worth of merienda to healthcare workers
in over 100 hospitals, in partnership with Goldilocks
• Made the Mall of Asia Arena a “mega swabbing center” in
partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and the national government
Source: SM Group COVID-19 Response Report Card, June 2020

28
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2016
2020

San Miguel Corporation

• Donated PhP1.24 billion in cash and response packages worth PhP13.1 billion
• Released, in advance, PhP8.77 billion in tax payments
• Paid out PhP3.09 billion for full salaries and compensation of its employees and
third-party suppliers
• Distributed PhP506.1 million worth of food items, including rice, canned
goods, poultry products, fresh meats, flour, bread, biscuits, milk, coffee
• Donated PhP97.1 million worth of alcohol to hospitals, government offices
and parishes nationwide
• Provided over PhP500 million in emergency medical response fund for PPEs
and other medical donations
• Personal donation of President and CEO Ramon S. Ang to Project Ugnayan:
PhP100 million
Source: San Miguel Corporation Report on COVID-19 Response Package, June 2020

v
Ayala Group of Companies

• Contributed over PhP9 billion to COVID-19 response efforts

• Converted the World Trade Center into a facility for COVID-19 related cases in
seven days in partnership with the Investment and Capital Corporation of the
Philippines (ICCP), DPWH, and others
• Paid in advance PhP9.86 billion in taxes
• Donated swabbing booths for the government’s four mega swabbing centers
in Palacio de Maynila, the Enderun Colleges in Taguig City, Philippine Arena in
Bulacan, and the Mall of Asia in Pasay City
• Converted its QualiMed hospital in Nuvali, Santa Rosa, Laguna into a
COVID-19 referral center
• Built and capacitated seven (7) Biosafety Level-2 labs around the country,
thereby providing an additional capacity of 5,500 RT-PCR tests/day
Source: Ayala Group Report on COVID-19 Efforts and Initiatives Tracker, June 2020

Manny V. Pangilinan Group of Companies

• Donated about PhP6.5 billion worth of COVID-19-related assistance

• Provided virus specimen collection kits, PPEs, medicine, relief goods (food
and alcohol), face masks, water supplies, as well as transportation services
for medical frontliners
• Released, in advance, PhP15 billion in taxes and concession fees
• PLDT Smart Group donated cash, food and grocery packs, PPEs, tents,
communications services and facilities for COVID facilities, hospital and
police/army personnel and displaced people in various areas.
• Provided top-quality care for COVID-19 patients through its 16 hospitals
and sent volunteer nurses to assist other hospitals
• Provided free speed boosts for Fiber internet customers, more data
services for mobile phone subscribers, deferred payments, and suspended
disconnections
• Assisted in setting up temporary healthcare facilities and mega-quarantine
sites in the Philippine Arena, World Trade Center, ASEAN Convention Center,
Philippine International Convention Center, and the Ninoy Aquino Stadium
Source: MVP Group Report on COVID-19 Assistance, June 2020

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Aboitiz and Company

• Contributed over PhP1.85 billion to help government, frontliners, and

communities deal with the COVID-19 crisis
• Donated PhP100 million to Project Ugnayan, which fed around 7.6
million people, provided food donations and essential medical supplies for
frontliners in hospitals, agencies, and LGUs
• Aided stranded passengers at seaports and provided livelihood to small
and micro-entrepreneurs
• Provided food supply for COVID-19 patients and frontliners
assigned in some quarantine facilities in Metro Manila; donated PhP3
million to help set-up quarantine facilities in Cebu; and distributed over
4,000 rapid test kits in Batangas
• Ensured uninterrupted power supply and electrification of critical
industries, communities, hospitals and other facilities, while extending
payment terms for customers
Source: Aboitiz Group COVID-19 Response Initiatives Report, June 2020

Nestlé Philippines

• Implemented the PhP500 million Kasambuhay program to assist one

million families and thousands of frontliners, others in need of healthcare,
and its employees and business partners
• Provided Kasambuhay kits consisting of Nestle products, in cooperation
with LGUs and non-government organizations (NGOs) for their distribution
• Contributed PhP10 million to the Philippine Red Cross to help set
up testing laboratories and purchase medical tents, PPEs, test kits,
ventilators, respirators, surgical masks, and other essential health
equipment
Source: Nestle Report on Kasambuhay ng Pamilya Pilipino Program to address
COVID-19, June 2020

Jollibee Group
• Donated PhP220 million worth of food to help frontliners and
families cope through the COVID-19 pandemic
• Allocated PhP1 billion in emergency response fund to provide its
employees with the needed financial support
• Brought 1.3 million meals directly to healthcare workers in hospitals
and healthcare centers, as well as on-ground personnel and frontliners
from different local government units
• Cooked and distributed meals through over 900 stores of the Jollibee
Group such as Jollibee, Chowking, Mang Inasal, Red Ribbon, Greenwich,
Burger King, Panda Express, and PHO24
• Distributed 2.5 million meals to some 500,000 severely affected
families. These meals were brought directly to the doorsteps of the
homes of these families through the help of some 76 partner NGOs and
institutions of the Jollibee Group throughout the country
• Provided free shuttle service to store teams, vitamin supplements, access
to online medical and mental health consultations
Source: Jollibee Group Report on COVID-19 Initiatives, June 2020

30
 PRP
2016
2020

National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP)

• Distributed PhP1 billion worth of goods to over 1,000 LGUs, and PPEs and
medical supplies to over 300 hospitals and city/municipal or rural health
units
• Turned over brand new ambulances, mechanical ventilators, portable
x-ray machines, ultrasound machines, PCR machines, PPEs, disinfecting
solutions, and infrared thermometers, among others
• Turned over a container van-type isolation room to the Biñan Doctors
Hospital, and testing booths and rapid test kits to the Quezon City LGU
including test administration and results interpretation
• Donated PhP5 million to Project Ugnayan through Caritas Manila, which
distributes supermarket vouchers to economically displaced families in
Metro Manila
• Implemented contingency measures, including isolation strategy for
essential personnel, work-from-home arrangement, advanced salaries and
early release of bonuses, and COVID-19 testing.
Source: NGCP Report on COVID-19 Donations, June 2020

The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation

• Activated its network of members for a coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This response included cash and in-kind donations valued at PhP3.0 billion, provision of 9.2
million food packs, 6.6 million PPEs, 490,000 liters of water, and delivery of 29.1 metric tons of
relief goods
• Teamed up with Caritas Manila and a group of over 50 private sector leaders and companies
who raised PhP1.7 billion for Project Ugnayan
• Collaborated with Zuellig Pharma, Metro Drug, and ABS-CBN to form Project Kaagapay, a
project dedicated to providing more PPEs, test kits, and ventilators to the health sector
• Partnered with Brown University and Project HOPE for a Train-the-Trainors program in
pandemic management and infectious disease control and prevention for doctors and clinicians
• Responded to the call of the government to form the public-private task force known as T3 or
Test, Trace, Treat which helped in streamlining the management of laboratory supplies; and
created mega-swabbing centers in Metro Manila
Source: PDRF Report on COVID-19 Response, July 2020

To be sure, there are so many other collaboration, cooperation, and

Good Samaritans whose names compassion are our most powerful
might not have been included here. weapons for overcoming this global
Our nation extends her profound challenge.
and heartfelt gratitude to each and
everyone of you. The Filipino spirit of bayanihan is the
light that shines our way brightly. It
The global battle against COVID-19 gives us good reason to keep our faith
could take longer than we hope. It and be hopeful for our future as a
is all the more reason for us to stay people and as a nation.
united in this fight. Our solidarity,

31
 PRP
2016
2020

UPLIFTING THE LIVING

CO N D I T I O N S O F T H E F I L I P I N O
P E O P L E : O U R M I L E S TO N E S
A N D ACCO M P L I S H M E N T S ,
2 0 1 6 - 2019

• Making Government More

Responsive
• Providing for the People’s
Basic Needs
• Safeguarding the Dividends
of Peace and Security

Photo Credit: DA

33
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

“We are workers of the

government and we
serve the people... Bayad
kami para magsilbi ng
tao. Kaya nandito kami.
Trabahante kami at
handa kaming tumulong
at handa kaming yakapin
kayong lahat.”

The President on his visit

to areas affected by the Taal
Volcano eruption, January
14, 2020

Chapter
Making Government

3
More Responsive

We, as workers in government, are called on to

respond to the challenges of the times. The COVID-19
pandemic has been a humbling experience for me as
it tested the country’s wherewithal and profoundly
affected our way of life. But the solid reforms
instituted under my Administration have allowed
us not only to decisively respond to the challenges
brought by the pandemic but also remain on track
in our goal of bringing a comfortable life for all
Filipinos.

In the four years since I assumed the Presidency,

we gained recognition as one of the fastest growing
economies in Asia on the back of prudent fiscal
management and sound economic fundamentals.

34
 PRP
2016
2020

With a steady economic growth, we about lousy government service,

helped uplift the living conditions of ensuring that it would not fall on deaf
many of our people as we managed ears. We have introduced reforms that
to reduce poverty in the country last would spare our people from needless
year. We also managed to raise billions commute and long queues to receive
of pesos for our COVID-19 response government service. We have cut short
and provide emergency stimulus to bureaucratic processes because our
the poor and most affected by the clients should not be made to wait.
pandemic. We started a relentless fight against
corruption and we continue to strive
For our people to truly enjoy a for transparency and accountability in
comfortable life, economic growth had all government transactions.
to be coupled with reforms to effect
a people-centric, credible, efficient, Four years into my term, I remain
effective, and responsive government. guided by one mantra: the Filipino
We have put systems in place to deserves world-class standards of
respond to our people’s complaints public service.

Effectively Responding to Public Concerns

Hotline 8888: Sumbungan ng Bayan 61

Figure 3.1 Complaints Received by Hotline
8888 (Nov 2017 to June 2020)
Hotline 8888 continues to operate 24
hours, seven days a week. As of this Comments and other complaints,
e.g., SAP assistance, quarantine
year, 20 more lines have been opened Complaints on
Government
in addition to the existing 40 in 2018. Officials and
We are working to include the use of 43,188 Employees
short message service (SMS) or text 27,195
messaging as another method by which
the public can report their complaints.
265,790
complaints
From November 2017 to June 2020, received
we have received 265,790 complaints
120,904
from the public on various concerns. 74,503
Of these, 177,244 have been handled
by appropriate government offices; Complaints on
39,412 are under processing; and Government
Requests for Social
Regulations and
49,134 are awaiting feedback from Processes Services
agencies concerned (see Figure 3.1). Source: OES

61 OES, July 17, 2020.

35
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB) 62 that have incurred the highest red
tape-related concerns to simplify their
The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) requirements, reduce processing time,
and the Civil Service Commission automate processes, and improve their
(CSC) are working together to ensure overall service delivery.
that mounting public complaints on
unsatisfactory government services With the help of the ARTA, these
are properly and expeditiously agencies have taken steps to improve
addressed and resolved, including their processes. However, given that
initiating investigation and filing of these agencies still received numerous
cases against violators. Our people are complaints from the people, much more
afforded various channels for them still needs to be done to make their
to easily relay their feedback on the processes truly client-friendly.
quality of government services they
receive. The CCB could be reached On February 21, 2020, I issued
through Hotline 16565, its website Administrative Order (AO) no. 23
( w w w. c o n t a c t c e n t e r n g b a y a n . g o v. p h ) , to address the people’s concern on
email (email@contactcenterngbayan. excessive and ineffective regulations
gov.ph), and SMS (0908-8816565). in government processes. Pursuant
to this Order, the ARTA launched the
From 2016 to June 2020, the CCB National Effort on the Harmonization
received and acted upon 555,515 of Efficient Measures of Interrelated
complaints and queries from the Agencies (NEHEMIA) Program. Aside
public, 99,640 63 of which were received from targeting to cut down costs in
from June 2019 to June 2020. transacting with the government,
the program aims to solve the lack of
By providing the public with a platform interconnection among agencies in the
to easily air out their concerns, we delivery of services to our people. 64
were able to closely look at sources
of public dissatisfaction and address I expect the ARTA not only to closely
them accordingly. monitor, but also adopt stringent
measures to ensure that all agencies
Still, we will continue to focus on these are strictly complying with this Order.
agencies because bureaucratic red Improvements in this regard are geared
tape can no longer persist under my towards our advancement in the areas
watch. Since its inception, the ARTA of competitiveness and ease of doing
has closely worked with the agencies business.

62 CSC CCB Accomplishment Report, July 9, 2020.

63 15,653 of these were received during the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine from March 16 to May 31, 2020. Mostly,
complaints were about the Social Amelioration Program; reports against government personnel; repatriation of stranded Overseas
Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers; and distribution of relief goods.
64 ARTA 2019-2020 Accomplishment Report, July 10, 2020.

36
 PRP
2016
2020

Figure 3.2 Nature of ARTA-related Complaints

Slow processing of transactions

16.50%
Discourteous frontliners
4.23% 32.06% Failure to act on request
Poor facility
5.82% Non-observance of the “No
Noon Break” policy
6.30% Failure to attend to clients
during office hours
6.94%
Fixing activities
18.58% Others
9.57%

Source: CSC

Table 3.1 Five Agencies with the Highest Number of ARTA-related Reports
(June 2019-June 2020)

Rank Nature of Complaints

1 LTO Slow Process; Fixing Activities; Discourtesy; Non-

Observance of ”No Noon Break” Policy; Poor Facility

Slow Process; Discourtesy; Failure to Attend to Clients

2 SSS during Office Hours; Poor Facility and Systems; Unclear
Procedures; Long Lines; Not Client-friendly

3 BIR Slow Process; Discourtesy; Poor Facility; Unclear

Procedures; Non-observance of ”No Noon Break” Policy

Slow Process; Failure to Attend to Clients during Office

4 LRA Hours; Non-observance of ”No Noon Break” Policy;
Discourtesy; Unattended Hotline Number

5 Pag-IBIG Slow Process; Poor Facility; Unclear Procedures;

Unattended Hotline Number; Discourtesy

Source: CSC

37
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Making Government Transactions Easier

Ease of Doing Business securing construction permits. 65

Our country has already attained For our country to maintain its
significant milestones in making competitiveness and sustain its
business transactions easier. Last momentum among the fastest-
year, we improved our ranking from rising economies in Asia, we are
124 th (out of 190 countries) in 2018 to also continuously listening to our
95 th based on the latest World Bank partners in the private sector to speed
Annual Doing Business Report. The up the issuance of permits and other
report noted that the Philippines has licenses. I am pleased to share that
improved in the areas of starting a the Electronic Business Permits and
business, dealing with construction Licensing System (e-BPLS), which has
permits, and protecting minority allowed business owners to file new
investors. Starting a business was applications and renewal of business
made easier by abolishing the permits online since 2017, has done
minimum capital requirement for its part in making transactions easier
domestic companies, while obtaining in 114 LGUs. Also, the DILG reported
an occupancy certificate was improved increasing compliance of LGUs with
due to the streamlined process in revised BPLS standards (see Table 3.2). 66

Table 3.2 Compliant LGUs on BPLS Revised Standards

Revised Standards on BPLS As of end of As of end of As of end of
Dec 2017 Dec 2018 Dec 2019
New Business Permit Application
Use of unified form 91% 96% 98%
3 steps or less 64% 85% 91%
2 signatories or less 77% 88% 91%
2 days processing time or less 79% 90% 94%
Business Permit Renewal
Use of unified form 90% 95% 98%
3 steps or less 66% 86% 92%
2 signatories or less 78% 88% 92%
1 day processing time or less 79% 89% 94%
Automation / computerization of BPLS 25% 27% 31%

Source: DILG

65 DICT, July 17, 2020; and DTI, July 16, 2020.

66 DILG, July 15, 2020.

38
 PRP
2016
2020

Even before the signing of RA no. slated to conduct a joint audit with
11032 or the Ease of Doing Business the Presidential Anti-Corruption
and Efficient Government Service Commission (PACC) on the
Delivery Act in 2018, I have directed agencies’ compliance with MC no.
all government agencies and LGUs to 2020-002; and
simplify their processes and reduce
the time an application goes through • Launched on February 28, 2020
before its release. Barely a year in
the National Business One-Stop
operation, the ARTA has accomplished
Shop (NBOSS), which is intended
the following: 67
to facilitate the registration of
businesses in the country by putting
• Filed cases against erring officials
in one location and integrating
and employees for violation of RA
the processes of the Securities
no. 11032;
and Exchange Commission (SEC),
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR),
• Conducted entrapment operations
SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. It
against employees of the Land
is supported by a platform called
Transportation Franchising and
the Central Business Portal, an
Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the
online system aimed to reduce,
Office of the Building Official of
if not eradicate long queues and
Taguig City due to alleged act of
human intervention in business
fixing in consideration of economic
registration-related transactions.
and other gain or advantage;
As of February 27, 2020, the DILG
reported that 92 percent or 1,389
• Issued Memorandum Circular
LGUs established Business One-
(MC) no. 2020-002, which directed
Stop Shop for frontline services
the automatic approval of
dealing with clients.
pending applications or requests
for the issuance of license,
Consular Services 68
clearance, permit, certification,
or authorization beyond the
For our overseas workers whose time
prescribed processing time of 3-7-
at home could be better spent with
20 working days, provided that all
their family, we made the consular
requirements have been complied
services more convenient by reducing
with. This issuance prompted 222
the different requirements and
agencies to act upon 7,768,189
implementing interventions to hasten
transactions, 7,399,298 of which
the application process.
were transactions with the Social
Security System (SSS). The ARTA is

67 ARTA, Memo for the CabSec dated 10 February 2020, February 10, 2020; and ARTA, Report on Compliance with ARTA MC 2020-02
68 DFA, July 17, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

To meet the increasing demand for via the Passport Online Appointment
consular services, the DFA opened System may also choose to avail of the
mall-based Consular Offices in courier service for the delivery of their
strategic locations nationwide and passports, allowing the applicants to
continued the Passport-On-Wheels pay for the passport processing fee and
services, which resulted in a significant the courier fee in one transaction. The
increase in passports released last new system of paying through credit
year (see Figure 3.3). Also in 2019, the and debit cards offers faster and real-
DFA issued 1,191,320 visas, which is time payment without need for people
21.89 percent more than the number to leave the safety of their homes.
issued the previous year. In addition,
667,928 authenticated documents Labor Force Services 69
were issued in 2019.
To respond to the ever-changing needs
Overseas Filipinos were provided with of our workforce, we have instituted
an alternative and more convenient different programs to provide them with
way to renew their passports through a reliable government support system
the establishment of Overseas through the following:
ePassport Renewal Centers in Dubai,
United Arab Emirates (UAE) on • 72-hour process cycle time in the delivery
November 21, 2019 and in Abu Dhabi, of frontline services, which aims to
streamline the DOLE’s key frontline
UAE on June 12, 2020.
services such as the registration
of contractors, registration of
Beginning June 16, 2020, applicants
Collective Bargaining Agreement,
who fill up their online applications issuance of Overseas Employment
Figure 3.3 Passports Released Certificate at Post, and accreditation
(July 2016 -2019) of Occupational Safety and Health
Practitioners. This is part of the
4,500,000 overall effort to hasten the delivery
4,095,302 of services to the public at the least
4,000,000
possible cost while ensuring ease in
3,500,000 transacting business and providing
3,000,000 quality service at all times. From
2,500,000 August 2016 to June 2020, the DOLE
served 19.66 million clients under the
2,000,000
72-hour policy while 15.61 million
1,500,000 or 79 percent of clients were served
1,000,000 in less than 24 hours. In addition,
500,000 216,058 transactions can be completed within
75,193
127,510 six to 72 hours, an improvement from
0
the previous five days to two weeks
2016 2017 2018 2019
Source: DFA processing time.

69 DOLE, July 17, 2020.

40
 PRP
2016
2020

• DOLE Hotline 1349 is a 24/7 hotline services accessible to Filipinos who

that provides client feedback and are currently working or planning
response to labor and employment- to work overseas. It aims to reduce
related inquiries. From September transportation expenses of OFWs and
2016 to June 2020, 351,401 queries shorten the processing time of their
were satisfactorily addressed documents. Accessible to OSSCO
through Hotline 1349. clients are 23 identified services from
16 different government agencies.
• One-Stop Service Center for OFWs From December 2016 to June 2020,
(OSSCO) brought together all 5.95 million clients have been served
concerned government agencies by the 18 OSSCOs nationwide.
in one location and made frontline

Left Picture: OFWs avail of services offered by the OSSCO at the POEA Central Office in Mandaluyong City.
Right Picture: The OSSCO POEA Central Office reopens its doors to the public after the easing of quarantine
measures imposed in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source and Photo Credit: DOLE

• OFW Command Center, which Transitioning to E-Governance

serves all OFW concerns needing
immediate action and assistance, While health and safety became
was launched in February 2018. our primary considerations at the
This 24/7 central referral action hub onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, my
located at the DOLE and through Administration also ensured service
www.commandcenter.dole.gov.ph continuity.
is open for all walk-in, email, text,
and telephone request for assistance,
Major adjustments had to be
and accessible through social media
implemented in government
and online messaging platforms.
transactions to prioritize and protect
From February 2018 to June 2020,
government workers’ health and
21,709 requests for assistance were
resolved under the Command safety without impeding the delivery
Center. of public service.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

On May 7, 2020, the CSC set multiple

Figure 3.4 Alternative Work
alternative work arrangements for
Arrangements
government agencies through MC no.
10, series of 2020 entitled “Revised Work-from-Home (WFH)
• output-oriented work
Interim Guidelines for Alternative arrangement
Work Arrangements (AWA) and • authorizes the worker to produce
outputs and accomplishments
Support Mechanisms for Workers in outside of the office
the Government During the Period of
Skeleton (skeletal) Workforce
State of National Emergency Due to • minimum number of employees
COVID-19 Pandemic.” required to keep an office
functional
Four-day (compressed) Workweek
To ensure the safety of people reporting • workweek compressed to four (4)
to government offices, agencies M T W TH F days each week
enforced health standard protocols Staggered Working Hours
• applicable to offices/agencies
and implemented precautionary that observe 24/7 shifting or
measures such as disinfection and flexible working time
decontamination activities. Support Other Alternative Work
mechanisms, such as health or Arrangements
• combination of the above
psychosocial interventions, and enumerated work arrangements
provision of PPEs and reasonable or other work arrangements
applicable to the agency
transportation facilities and housing • subject to the prevailing
quarters; authorized reduced working community quarantine in the
area where the agency is located
hours; and approved monetary
and other forms of incentives were Source: CSC
also made available to government
workers. the government from the convenience
of their homes.
The government also encouraged the
private sector to adopt similar work National Government Portal (NGP). 71
arrangements and health standards The NGP or GOV.PH is a one-stop
and guidelines. The DOLE issued site where people can find reliable
various advisories to assist employers and up-to-date services, data, and
in the resumption of their operations information. Currently, 231 e-services
while preserving the employment are linked to the NGP and by the
of their workers and ensuring their end of 2022, the DICT envisions an
health and safety while working. 70 increase in the number of new, up,
and running government services
To ensure the unhampered delivery of listed in the GOV.PH. We will also
services to the people, we maximized improve online government data and
online transactions to lessen the information to ensure more up-to-
possibility of local transmission and date and reliable information on the
to enable the people to transact with Philippine Government.

70 DOLE, July 17, 2020.

71 DICT, July 17, 2020.

42
 PRP
2016
2020

Part of the NGP is the Central Business 1.89 million electronic payment
Portal stationed at the first NBOSS transactions amounting to PhP824
location at the SEC Office at the billion. Under my Administration, the
Philippine International Convention BIR introduced additional electronic
Center. Given the new normal payment channels, which taxpayers
situation, NBOSS will be re-engineered can utilize to pay their tax returns
as a virtual NBOSS moving forward. online, on top of the electronic Filing
and Payment System and GCash
e-Kadiwa. 72 To support the agricultural digital platform. These include the
sector, we expanded the DA’s online PesoNet through the LBP Link.biz
services by launching new programs Portal, Development Bank of the
such as e-Kadiwa, an online marketing Philippines (DBP) PayTax Online
platform that directly links producers System, UnionBank Online, and
and agri-preneurs to consumers. PayMaya. 74
Customers may visit eKadiwa.da.gov.
ph, where they can order a wide range LTO Online Facility. Also, on June 8,
of fresh and affordable farm and 2020, the Land Transportation Office
fishery products from 24 different (LTO) opened their online portal
merchants as of July 21, 2020. The (portal.lto.gov.ph) where motorists may
e-Kadiwa also partnered with Grab now access their records, and apply
Express and Lalamove for logistics or renew their car registration and
and delivery services. driver ’s licenses online. The portal
aims to ease car registration and
Business Name Registration System license application procedures and
(BNRS). Filipinos who registered their enable applicants to make cashless
business names under the DTI’s BNRS payments for fines and other fees
portal also significantly increased before making an appointment at an
during the pandemic. In 2019, business LTO branch office. 75
name registration for enterprises
involved in retail sale via internet Electronic Inquest Proceeding. To
was only 1,642. This has increased continue processing complaints and
significantly in 2020 with 37,141 other cases, on March 27, 2020, the DOJ
business names registered under the issued an Office Order on Electronic
same classification from January to Inquest Proceeding (E-Inquest)
June 20, 2020. 73 which can be availed by NCR City
Prosecutors. The E-Inquest allows the
BIR Online Facility. As for the virtual conduct of inquest using any
taxpayers, they were able to take online platform that may be managed
advantage of the BIR’s online facility by the participating Prosecutor ’s
during the pandemic. From January Offices. 76
to June 30, 2020, the BIR facilitated

72 eKadiwa Official Website, https://www.ekadiwa.da.gov.ph/ accessed on July 21, 2020.

73 DTI, July 16, 2020.
74 DOF, July 22, 2020.
75 DOTr July 16, 2020.
76 Baker Mckenzie, Philippines: Modified Procedures for Inquest, Posting of Bail, and Filing of Criminal Cases in Court, April 2, 2020.

43
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Intensifying the Fight against Corruption

In our unrelenting crusade to cleanse the government of bad eggs, I have fired and
caused the resignation of more than a hundred high-ranking officials, without exemption,
including allies and campaign supporters. Those who continue to engage in practices
that do not benefit the Filipino people can also expect to get the axe in the future.

Despite our best efforts, several corruption

controversies rocked the country starting
last year, such as the issue on the expanded
Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA)
law and the discovery of the pastillas
bribery scheme, among others.

An exposé revealed that the GCTA was

allegedly being sold inside prisons,
enabling convicts of heinous crimes,
including murderers, to be set free for
supposed good behavior. This had greatly
upset me and affected the trust of our
people in their government. This led the
DOJ and DILG to immediately revisit
and revise the Implementing Rules and Photo Credit: PCOO
Regulations (IRR) of RA no. 10592 or the
GCTA Law so heinous crime convicts77 “It’s a simple case of --- you resign or I file
would no longer be qualified to avail of charges. And that goes for all of us. We
the GCTA.78 are workers of government and we serve
the people, period.”
In the case of the pastillas bribery
scheme, it involved certain Bureau of
Immigration (BI) personnel who had The DOJ and BI have undertaken
allegedly been offering escort service to measures to put a stop to these
Chinese nationals entering the country corrupt practices. Some of these
in exchange for a PhP10,000 fee rolled in measures include the reassignment
bond papers, similar to the traditional of BI personnel, non-extension of
candy locally known in the country as tourist visas upon arrival, which was
pastillas. Even before such anomalies were prone to abuse, and implementation of the
uncovered earlier this year, the National Advanced Passenger Information System.
Bureau of Investigation (NBI) had been We are also counting on the support of
investigating reported corrupt practices Congress to push for the passage of the
allegedly perpetrated by unscrupulous BI Modernization Bill to modernize the
groups in airport terminals. Bureau and help discourage corruption.
77 Those charged with heinous crimes and detained before 2013 can avail of the much lesser GCTA allowance under the Revised Penal Code.
78 DILG, DOJ issue revised GCTA rules and regulations, September 17, 2019.

44
 PRP
2016
2020

DOJ Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra and DILG Secretary Año jointly sign and issue the revised IRR of the
GCTA Law on September 15, 2019.
Photo Credit: DOJ

Likewise, to ensure transparency and government employees. Several of my

remove opportunities for corruption in Cabinet members voluntarily submitted
ports of entry, I also directed the DOTr themselves to undergo the process and
to replace the walls of government directed all their respective department
frontline offices with glass and install officials to participate. At present, the
CCTV cameras and microphones in the PACC is working hard to complete its
immigration booths to make public all ongoing 15 lifestyle checks as quickly as
transactions between immigration officers possible.80
and passengers.
Last year, we initiated Bantay Korapsyon to
These setbacks served as inspiration for bring our campaign against corruption to
us to be even more determined to provide the local level by encouraging the active
the Filipino people a credible government participation of various stakeholders.
that they truly deserve. A staunch partner The DILG conducted a series of town
in this massive undertaking since its hall meetings dubbed as Kape-Kapehan
creation in October 2017 has been the para sa Bayan in several LGUs to stress
PACC. The PACC has helped in rooting the crucial role of the public, including
out corrupt officials in government and civil society organizations, in eliminating
filing appropriate cases against these corruption at the grassroots level. Through
unscrupulous individuals. There are Bantay Korapsyon, the DILG acted on 866
currently 55 corruption-related concerns complaints against local officials in 2019,
endorsed by the PACC to the Office of the majority of which were related to the 2019
Ombudsman. It has also completed 78 Mid-term National and Local Elections.81
fact-finding investigations and is currently
conducting 92 more. 79 There shall be no letup in our fight against
corruption. I am counting on the PACC to
Together with the Anti-Money intensify its crackdown on corrupt officials
Laundering Council (AMLC), the PACC in the government.
initiated the conduct of lifestyle checks on

79 PACC, June 20, 2020.

80 Ibid.
81 DILG, July 15, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Promoting Budget Transparency 82

In our effort to make the government the 19th spot in the previous OBS.
more open, accountable, and responsive,
we promoted budget transparency. We The country’s 2019 Open Budget Index
substantially disclosed information on the (OBI) score climbed nine notches
country’s budget as we want our citizens higher to 76 (out of 100) from 67 in
to participate, monitor, and scrutinize 2017, exceeding the 2019 and 2021 OBI
how we raise revenues, allocate resources, target scores of 67 and 71, respectively,
and manage our public finances. I am under the Philippine Development
truly delighted that we succeeded in this Plan (PDP) 2017-2022. Our score is also
endeavor. notably higher than the global average
score of 45.
According to the Open Budget Survey
(OBS) of the International Budget The country’s participation score84 is also
Partnership,83 the Philippines remains the sixth highest score worldwide (31 out
the most fiscally transparent country in of 100) and is significantly above the global
Southeast Asia in 2019. In terms of global average score of 14. Moreover, budget
ranking, the Philippines ranked 10th oversight remained strong in our
worldwide (out of 117 countries) for the country, with a composite oversight
first time in 2019, a substantial jump from score of 74 (out of 100), which means that

Figure 3.5 Philippines’ OBS Performance

31/100 76/100 74/100

Public Participation Score Transparency OBI Score Budget Oversight Score

2019 OPEN BUDGET SURVEY HOW HAS THE OBI SCORE OF

TRANSPARENCY INDEX IN THE PHILIPPINES CHANGED OVER TIME?
SOUTHEAST ASIA
Global Average 45 76 2019

Philippines 76 67 2017
64 2015
Indonesia 70
48 2012
Thailand 61
55 2010
Malaysia 47
Timor-Leste 40
Vietnam 38
Cambodia 32
Myanmar 28

Source: DBM

82 DBM, July 17, 2020.

83 A biennial survey developed by the International Budget Partnership that uses independent, comparative, and internationally-accepted
criteria to assess budget transparency, public participation, and budget oversight.
84 A transparency score of 61 and above implies comprehensive, timely, and online publication of all key budget documents such as the
Enacted Budget and Citizen’s Budget, among others.

46
 PRP
2016
2020

Congress and the Commission on Audit infrastructure capital outlays, and until
are adequately overseeing the budget December 31, 2021 for infrastructure
process. items. With the help of Congress, we have
allowed the same timetables for the PhP3.7-
In September 2019, I issued EO no. 91 trillion 2019 budget as their utilization was
on the adoption of the Cash Budgeting delayed by almost four months due to late
System (CBS) beginning Fiscal Year (FY) budget approval.85
2019. Unlike the previous obligation-
based budgeting system where the I am confident that the adoption of the CBS
implementation period for projects is will ensure the prudent use of our public
open, the CBS promotes discipline, focus, resources, prevent wastage and corruption,
and better operational planning among and ultimately, improve the quality and
agencies as it funds only the programs efficiency of our public services.
and projects that can be implemented
and completed within the fiscal year. It The DBM also instituted other reforms to
also provides for a fixed implementation complement the CBS.
and payment period that must be strictly
observed. • Budget and Treasury Management
System (BTMS) is an integrated
This year, as we transition to the CBS, and secure information system for
all appropriations authorized under the public financial management
our PhP4.1-trillion 2020 national budget operations of the government. It
shall be available for release until has been introduced to 108 national
December 31, 2020. Implementation government agencies and has been
and payment may be done until June rolled out to 12 agencies.86 It allows
30, 2021 for maintenance and other oversight agencies to generate reports
operating expenses (MOOE) and non- on government transactions at near

DBM Secretary Wendel E. Avisado, seated with Speaker Alan Peter S. Cayetano (seated rightmost),
House Majority Leader Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez (second from left), and Minority Leader
Bienvenido Abante Jr. (seated leftmost), presents to the House of Representatives the FY 2020 budget
proposal.
Photo Credit: DBM

85 RA no. 11464, December 20, 2019.

86 DBM; DPWH; DTI; DSWD; DICT; DENR; DND; Bureau of the Treasury; Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services
Administration; National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; Environmental Management Bureau; and Benguet State University.

47
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

real-time. This year, the DBM targets achieve transparency in all stages
to roll out the BTMS to more than of government procurement. From
23 agencies. The interface between February 2019 to July 10, 2020, the
the BTMS and the Modernized Virtual Store, which was the first
Philippine Government Electronic phase of MPhilGEPS that allows
Procurement System (MPhilGEPS) online procurement of common-
is also targeted to be completed use supplies and equipment
in 2020, fortifying the link between on a 24/7 basis, has facilitated
planning, procurement, and budget 2,604 transactions amounting to
utilization. PhP312.91 million. The remaining
phases of the MPhilGEPS are
• MPhilGEPS is a single, central targeted to be completed by
electronic portal that aims to December 2020.

Sustaining Reforms in Revenue-Generating

Agencies
Entrenched corruption in our revenue-
generating agencies has always been Figure 3.6 Reforms in the BOC
one of the major causes of our people’s
distrust in government. I understand CUSTOMER CARE PORTAL SYSTEM
Allows external stakeholders to
your frustration. Thus, since I assumed electronically submit their queries,

office, we have instituted reforms within

applications for Customs Accreditation,
and request to continue processing of
these agencies to ensure that the people’s shipments tagged abandoned

hard-earned money would no longer WORLD CUSTOMS ORGANIZATION

be pocketed or squandered by corrupt CARGO TARGETING SYSTEM

officials and employees. While we still

A tool for advanced profiling of shipments
before they arrive at Philippine ports
have a long way to go, I am pleased that
we have started to reap the benefits from PARCEL TRACKING SYSTEM
these reforms. An online tracker that provides updates
about the parcel as it goes through the
different stages of customs clearance
Intensified Anti-Smuggling Operations
and Improved Collection Performance87 CUSTOMER CARE CENTER
A One-Stop-Shop Office for walk-in BOC
stakeholders that provides a centralized
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has document receiving and releasing
service, information kiosks, gate pass
continuously modernized and automated issuance, payment booth and other
its processes to deter human intervention Customs services

in customs administration (see Figure 3.6). ANTI-CORRUPTION HOTLINE 8484

A special text hotline number where the

Similarly, the BOC has intensified its public could directly report irregular
transactions of any BOC official,
operations and prosecution of smugglers employee, brokers, importers, and fixers

in the country through the BOC’s Action Source: BOC

87 DOF, July 14, 2020.

48
 PRP
2016
2020

Figure 3.7 Collection Performance of the

Table 3.3 BATAS Accomplishments
BOC, 2016-2019 (in Billion PhP)
(2017 - June 2020)
Actual Collection
700 Target
95.35%
Total Dutiable
Cases % Accomplishment
Year Value 101.42%
Filed 600
(in Billion PhP)

2017 12 6.51 500 99.68%

96.91%
400
2018 69 2.99

630.31
661.04
593.11
584.88
458.18
459.64
300

396.37
2019 27 3.60

409
200
Jan -June 19 0.39
2020
100

TOTAL 127 13.49 0

2016 2017 2018 2019
Source: BOC
Source: DOF

Team Against Smugglers (BATAS). From

2017 to June 2020, the BOC has filed 127
cases against importers, brokers, and
Customs employees before the DOJ, with
a dutiable value of PhP13.49 billion (see
Table 3.3). Aside from these, the BOC has
either revoked or suspended the Customs
accreditation of 852 importers and 208
customs brokers since 2016.

The discipline and proper administration The BOC raids a warehouse full of infringing
that we have been instilling in the BOC goods in Tondo, Manila on July 6, 2020.
Source and Photo Credit: BOC
are paying off as the Bureau collected
PhP630.6 billion in import duties and
other taxes in 2019, up by 6.3 percent
compared to PhP593.11 billion in 2018 (see
Figure 3.7).

The BOC also filed with the Office of

the Ombudsman 158 cases against its
erring employees, 13 of whom were
subsequently dismissed from the service
while two were suspended for various
offenses. They were among those whom BOC-Port of Manila personnel seize tons of
misdeclared sugar on December 17, 2019.
I directed to be charged with appropriate Source and Photo Credit: BOC
cases for corrupt practices in office.

49
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Aside from going after corrupt in taxes collected. This represents an

employees and smugglers, we also increase of 11.73 percent from PhP1.96
recorded a significant increase in trillion in 2018.
the value of seized smuggled goods.
From July 2016 to June 2020, the BOC To sustain the strong revenue
seized an estimated PhP53.63 billion collection, the BIR strengthened its tax
worth of smuggled goods through its monitoring and enforcement efforts.
intensified anti-smuggling operations. From July 2016 to June 2020, the BIR
has filed 639 complaints against tax
I expect the BOC to continue weeding
evaders before the DOJ, with 62 more
out corrupt officials and employees
among its ranks. cases up for filing. These complaints
involved tax liabilities worth an
estimated PhP77 billion.
Stronger Tax Monitoring and
Enforcement 88 From July 2016 to June 2020, the BIR
ordered under its Oplan Kandado
Taxes are the lifeblood of any program the temporary closure of 1,261
government. They serve as fuel that business establishments nationwide and
even the most well-oiled bureaucracy collected PhP3.45 billion due to various
cannot do without. Thus, I am pleased violations of the National Internal
that the BIR’s collection in 2019 Revenue Code by these establishments.89
breached the PhP2-trillion mark for Meanwhile, as a result of the general
the first time, with PhP2.19 trillion amnesty on unpaid internal revenue

Figure 3.8 Tax Monitoring and Enforcement Accomplishments

(July 2016 - June 2020)

RUN AFTER
TAX EVADERS 1,261
(RATE) SHOP businesses temporarily closed

CL EDS

C
C

639 Complaints filed before the DOJ

OPLAN PhP3.45 billion
KANDADO collected for various violations
PhP77.03 billion in tax liabilities
Source: DOF

88 DOF, July 14, 2020 and July 22, 2020.

89 DOF, July 22, 2020.

50
 PRP
2016
2020

taxes that we instituted last year through The BIR also enhanced its complaint
RA no. 11213 or the Tax Amnesty Act, system to better serve its primary
we have collected an additional PhP4.26 stakeholders: the taxpayers. The BIR
billion on unfiled and unpaid taxes from made its complaint system electronic
delinquencies and estate taxes as of May for faster response to the taxpayers’
2020. complaints and concerns. With the
eComplaint System, taxpayers can
Due to our sustained campaign to crack report complaints on the non-issuance
down on errant Philippine Offshore of official receipts or invoices
Gaming Operators (POGOs) and their through the eComplaint NO-OR online
service providers that have eschewed facility; complaints and concerns
tax payments, we collected PhP6.42 relative to erring BIR personnel
billion in taxes in 2019, which was 170 through eComplaint DISIPLINA; and
percent more than the PhP2.38 billion complaints related to tax evasion
collected from these businesses in through eComplaint Run After Tax
2018. In July 2019, concerned agencies Evaders (RATE) without leaving the
signed Joint MC no. 001, s. 2019, comfort of their homes. 91
which set the rules and regulations on
the reunified government policy for Moving forward, I am confident
allowing foreign workers to engage that the BIR can surpass its previous
in gainful employment in the country. accomplishments. I enjoin the BIR
Under the said circular, foreign to continue improving its collection
nationals are required to secure a performance and the responsiveness
Taxpayer Identification Number of its services to make these truly
from the BIR to ensure payment of client-friendly and e-governance
appropriate taxes. 90 ready.

Maintaining Good Governance in the Public

Corporate Sector92
Among my priorities when I assumed as this was important in holding down
the Presidency in 2016 was to instill fiscal deficits and ensuring funding for
fiscal discipline, accountability, and infrastructure and social programs, among
transparency in our Government-Owned others.
and -Controlled Corporations (GOCCs).
We first revisited the compensation and Through these efforts, we have been
incentives received by their appointive collecting dividends from GOCCs in
directors, through the issuance of EO record amounts. In 2018, we breached
no. 36 on July 28, 2017. We also closely the PhP40-billion mark for the first time
monitored their dividend remittance as we collected dividends amounting
90 DOF, July 21, 2020.
91 BIR Official Website, Enhanced BIR’s eComplaint System, June 22, 2020.
92 DOF, July 21, 2020.

51
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

to PhP51.24 billion. I am pleased that

we surpassed this amount in 2019,
with PhP69.20 billion in dividends.
This is true even after we granted
dividend relief of PhP11.82 billion to
the LBP, Php3.76 billion to the DBP,
and PhP1 billion to the Home Guranty
Corporation. The amounts correspond to
their 2018 net income. This would help
these GOCCS recapitalize and better
serve the increasing development needs
of the country.
President Duterte, assisted by DOF Secretary
Dominguez, awards DOTr Secretary Arthur P.
The fiscal discipline that we have Tugade with a certificate of acknowledgment
instilled has prepared our GOCCs to for the top dividend contributions of the DOTr’s
attached agencies during the GOCC Day on
immediately rise to the challenge of July 11, 2019 at Malacañan Palace.
the times. The dividends of various Photo Credit: PCOO
GOCCs have helped augment the
resources we needed to fund our have remitted PhP127.50 billion
COVID-19 emergency response, in dividends, which is the highest
including provision of economic relief amount ever collected in such a short
to poor families and other vulnerable period of time and since RA no. 7656
groups most affected by the pandemic. or the Dividend Law was enacted.
As of July 17, 2020, various GOCCs

Building Trust through Access to Public

Information93
On July 23, 2016, I signed EO no. 2, make a wide range of information
which implemented the Freedom of on government efforts and processes
Information (FOI) in the Executive publicly available. As the lead agency
Branch. Increasing citizen access to for the implementation of EO no. 2, the
public information would go a long PCOO remains committed to promote
way in restoring the people’s trust the four values of the Philippine
in government. It is also a concrete Open Government Partnership
response to the calls for improved initiatives cited in the PDP 2017-
transparency. 2022: 1) access to information, 2) civic
participation, 3) public accountability,
Four years since the signing of this and 4) technology and innovation for
landmark issuance, we continue to openness and accountability.

93 PCOO, July 15, 2020.

52
 PRP
2016
2020

Figure 3.9 FOI Accomplishments

487 4,206
Government agencies Receiving officers
onboarded in the designated across
electronic FOI portal government agencies

28
Local government units
534
Information, education,
which issued ordinances and communication
or EOs localizing access activities organized and
to information in their participated in
respective jurisdictions
Source: PCOO

FOI Manuals defining agencies’ process

to facilitate FOI requests have been Table 3.4 Agencies with the Highest
published in print format to guide those Number of eFOI Requests
without internet access, and in digital
format to allow the public to request Philippine Statistics
1 Authority
3,181
information without physically going to
government offices. As of July 15, 2020,
all 190 National Government Agencies 2 Department of Health 2,080
have complied with the directive
to submit their FOI Manuals, while 3 Department of Education 1,348
compliance of GOCCs is at 92 percent
(102 out of 111), State Universities and Department of
Colleges at 96 percent (107 out of 111), 4 Social Welfare and 1,253
and Local Water Districts at 46 percent Development
(240 out of 520).
Department of Labor
5 and Employment
1,196
Since its implementation in November
2016, 31,827 requests received through Source: PCOO
the eFOI portal (www.foi.gov.ph) have
been resolved. The top agencies with the Executive Branch. The Supreme Court
highest number of eFOI portal requests and other Constitutional Commissions
include the PSA, DOH, and DepEd (see have participated and submitted their
Table 3.4). own FOI Manuals. In the remaining
years of my Administration, we will
To provide our people with wider continue working with Congress on the
access to government information, the passage of the FOI bill to ensure that
PCOO has continuously reached out to our people’s Constitutional right to
other government entities outside the information is fully realized.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

A Student’s Feedback on the eFOI

“The information I acquired from the eFOI portal helped

supplement my position paper, as a member of the Heritage
Conservation Society, in advocating the preservation
and conservation of our built heritage. It helped me in
my endeavor and it also assured other advocates that
government’s transparency shows commitment to the
preservation, conservation, and development of our built
heritage.”
Source: PCOO
Edward Bryan Caisip
Bachelor of Library and Information Science
University of the Philippines Diliman

Source: PCOO

Way Forward: Towards Greater Transparency

and Responsiveness of Services to the Public
My Administration has worked doubly public service delivery. Now more
hard in addressing public concerns, than ever, as we continue to face the
streamlining government processes, challenges brought by the COVID-19
ensuring prudent use of the people’s pandemic, your government must
money, and making important accelerate the digitization of services,
services and public information more further improve systems to be
accessible. Systemic corruption has more client-friendly, and push for
long denied resources and services greater horizontal integration among
that the people deserve. I have vowed agencies.
to rectify this injustice by placing
the Filipino at the heart of every Four years into my term, I remain
government effort to bring us closer faithful to my commitment to ensure
to the people and restore the people’s that every single centavo spent will
faith and trust in government. redound to the well-being of the
Filipino people, beginning with easy
The road ahead is still long but we and immediate access to their most
are not changing course. With the basic needs. A comfortable life for
help of Congress, the bills on FOI all Filipinos has always been my
and BI Modernization shall become overarching goal.
laws that will help drive greater
transparency and responsiveness in

54
 PRP
2016
2020

"As a worker of
government, I promised
to do whatever it would
take to give all Filipinos a
comfortable life, fighting
powerful interests and
making sacrifices. My
obligation is to promote
and uphold the greatest
good, for the greatest
number."

The President's State of the

Nation Address (SONA),
July 23, 2018

Photo Credit: DA

Providing for the

Chapter
People’s Basic Needs
4 The Filipino people’s well-being is always foremost
in my mind. True to this commitment, we pursued
transformational reforms toward responsive services
that would provide for better, safer, and healthier
lives for our people. As such, the share of social
services has accounted for over a third of our national
budget for the past three years.

We have institutionalized programs and projects to

make available sufficient and affordable food; ensure
the supply of clean and potable water; provide
decent and affordable housing; energize households
nationwide; make quality education and training
inclusive; deliver professional and accessible health

55
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

care; and advance employment and livelihood opportunities for our people,
especially the poor and marginalized. With this, we hope to not only give them
the service that they deserve but also prepare and enable them to be resilient
against the challenges that may come along the way.

Achieving Food Security through

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustained Agricultural Development challenges in the agricultural sector,

which translated to a 4.4 percent decline
We remain focused on ensuring that food in the value of agricultural production
is available and within reach of every from PhP1.82 billion in 2018 to PhP1.74
Filipino family. As a result, the country billion in 2019. Despite the decline, we
continued to rise in rank in terms of food managed to sustain a 3.6 percent average
security under the Global Food Security annual growth in the agricultural sector
Index (GFSI),94 from being ranked 79th in from 2016 to 2019 (see Figure 4.1).
2017 to 64th in 2019 (see Table 4.1).

Figure 4.1 Value of Production in

Table 4.1 Philippine Ranking Agriculture
in the GFSI
2018-2019 Growth
Rank
Score* Rank** Poultry Crops
Change
6.3% -8.7%
2016 49.5 74 -2
Fisheries Livestock
6.1% -7.2%
2017 47.3 79 -5

2018 51.5 70 +9

2019 61.0 64 +6 16%

2019
Subsector’s
*0-100 where 100 is the most favorable Share in Agri 14%
**Out of 113 countries Production
53%
Source: The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)
17%

3.6% Average
In Billion Pesos

Agricultural Production in 2019 growth

1.82
1.72 1.74
The El Niño phenomenon, the African
1.57
Swine Fever (ASF), the onslaught of
typhoons in 2019, and the diminishing
area of farmlands due to conversion and 2016 2017 2018 2019

competing land use, led to significant Source: PSA

94 The GFSI is a holistic measure of a country’s food system, taking into account not only its ability to supply enough calories to the population, but also how
the food system is affected by factors ranging from political stability to climate threats. The 2019 index provides new data and insights for critical metrics,
including agriculture infrastructure and nutritional standards, and the ability of households and countries to anticipate, absorb, and recover from a variety
of shocks. (Source: EIU)

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2020

Balancing the Supply and Demand for Rice

Figure 4.2 Philippine
From 2016 to 2019, our average annual Palay Production
local rice production was 12.23 million
19.28 19.07 18.81
metric tons (MMT) or equivalent to 20
17.63
18.70 MMT of palay. However, this

AREA (in million hectares)

was inadequate to meet the national 15

VOLUME (MMT)
demand (see Table 4.2 and Figure 4.2).
10
Table 4.2 Rice Supply
Situation (MMT) 4.56 4.81 4.80 4.65
5

2016 2017 2018 2019

0
Total 15.33 16.26 16.76 17.99*
Utilization 2016 2017 2018 2019

Rice 11.53 12.61 12.47 12.31

Production YIELD (MT/ha)

Deficit 3.80 3.65 4.29 5.68* Production

2016 3.87 (MMT)
*Projected utilization is based on the Philippine
Statistics Authority’s 2017 level of derived per capita 2017 4.01
Harvest
consumption (118.16 kg/annum) and computed using a 2018 3.97 Area (has)
1.72 percent population growth rate.
Sources: DA, PSA 2019 4.04

To address the rice deficit, we are Source: PSA

working doubly hard to help our
farmers increase productivity per Implementation of the Rice Tariffication
hectare, harvestable area, and cropping Law
intensity, while reducing postharvest
losses and crop damage due to climate The enactment of the law in February
change and natural disasters. We are 2019 lifted quantitative restrictions on
also harmonizing the arrival of rice rice imports and replaced them with
sourced from other countries during tariffs. This was with the end in view of
lean months through the diligent lowering rice prices and helping manage
implementation of RA no. 11203 or inflation.95 The resulting drop in the retail
the Rice Tariffication Law, while at prices of rice has benefitted millions of
the same time providing immediate Filipinos, especially poor households
unconditional cash transfer and that spend around 20 percent of their
access to socialized agricultural and budget on rice. Meanwhile, to mitigate
calamity-related credit facilities and its impact on small local farmers, the
crop insurance. law also provided safety nets through

95 The Rice Tariffication Law contributed to the easing of inflation rate from 6.7 percent in October 2018 to 2.5 percent in December 2019. (Source: PSA)

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

the annual appropriation of PhP10 billion for the next six years under the Rice
Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) or Rice Fund (see Table 4.3).

Table 4.3 RCEF Implementation Status

Fund Component/ Status
Agency/GFI
Purpose (as of May 31, 2020)
PhP5 billion for DA-Philippine Center • Distributed 2,938 units of
equipment and for Postharvest agricultural machinery and
machineries, and Development and equipment to 625 farmer-
PhP100 million for Mechanization cooperatives and associations in 57
training services (PhilMech) priority provinces
• Provided training on rice machinery
operation, drying and milling plant
servicing, and small engine servicing
courses
PhP3 billion for DA-Philippine Rice Delivered 3,588,937 bags (20 kgs per
certified in-bred seeds Research Institute bag) of seeds worth PhP2.73 billion
distribution, and (PhilRice) to 950 municipalities (as of June 21,
PhP100 million for 2020)
extension services
PhP800 million for DA-Agricultural Disbursed PhP74 million for
skills diversification, Training Institute the training of 32,319 farmers,
training, and (ATI) and Technical specialists, trainers, and extension
development, including Education and workers in 279 training courses
training on farm Skills Development covering farmers’ field school and
equipment operations Authority (TESDA) other technical skills development
courses
PhP1 billion for DA-Agricultural Released PhP947.79 million in loans to
Expanded Rice Credit Credit Policy Council 23 borrowing organizations and 3,109
Assistance (ERCA) (ACPC), through: individual borrowers nationwide
loans with 2 percent
interest rate per • LBP
annum, payable in • DBP
three years
Source: DA

Brand New Farm Equipment

Given to Farmers in Nueva Ecija.
The DA turns over 13 rice
harvesters, 12 tractors, and two
mechanical rice transplanters
to 36 farmers’ groups in Nueva
Ecija on June 4, 2020, through
the RCEF agricultural machinery
and equipment distribution
component.

Photo Credit: DA

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Rice farmers from San Simon, Pampanga Rice farmers receive loan assistance under
receive certified palay seeds from the DA. the RCEF-ERCA through the LBP.
Photo Credit: DA Photo Credit: DA and LBP

Helping Local Rice Farmers Sell their to the NFA, with PhP16.57 billion
Produce worth of palay locally procured since
the enactment of the law, including
The Rice Tariffication Law also 732,572 MT of palay procured in 2019,
mandated the National Food Authority which is nearly 12 times more than the
(NFA) to source its rice buffer stock 61,783 MT procured in 2018 (see Table
solely from local farmers. Relatedly, I 4.4). This has allowed our farmers to
ordered the DA and the NFA to ramp enjoy higher buying price (PhP19.00/
up their local procurement of palay to kilogram [kg]), which has given them
enable our small farmers to recoup an added income of PhP1.89 per kg
their losses due to initial market over the prevailing farm gate price
distortions caused by the sudden surge (PhP17.11/kg). 96 It has also enabled
of rice importation. As such, more and us to maintain sufficient rice buffer
more farmers are selling their palay stock that is good for over two months.

The President orders the

NFA on November 20, 2019
to increase the country’s rice
buffer stock from 15 days
to 30 days by buying more
palay from small farmers.

Photo Credit: DA and NFA

96 PSA, Average farm gate price of palay from January to May 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Table 4.4 NFA Palay Procurement in Metric Tons (MT)

(as of June 2020)
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 TOTAL
Philippines 118,257 29,441 61,783 732,572 139,360 1,081,413
NCR - - - 39 - 39
Region I 1,847 902 1,206 71,820 12,745 88,521
Region II 12,103 1,945 2,756 101,049 8,488 126,341
Region III 10,819 3,414 1,768 164,467 11,333 191,800
Region IV 59,964 10,754 42,584 138,053 45,454 296,809
Region V 9,841 2,651 1,330 33,326 9,503 56,651
Region VI 18,307 7,976 4,686 80,564 31,333 142,865
Region VII 23 31 5 281 127 468
Region VIII 281 125 34 4,236 468 5,143
Region IX 633 707 1,092 26,847 4,588 33,867
Region X 345 325 1,161 25,389 1,651 28,871
Region XI 860 191 1,440 16,794 1,367 20,652
Region XII 2,898 362 3,248 52,309 11,398 70,215
Region XIII 336 57 344 13,725 660 15,122
BARMM - - 129 3,674 248 4,051
Note: Numbers may not add up due to rounding. CAR is included in Regions I and II.
Source: NFA

Cash Subsidy for Small Farmers Another PhP3 billion was made available
under the DA’s budget to cover Financial
As additional assistance to small rice Subsidy for Rice Farmers (FSRF) and
farmers to help sustain their livelihood help 591,246 small rice farmers98 in
amidst declining palay prices, we made 26 provinces that were not previously
available PhP3 billion to cover express covered by the RFFA and eight other
cash subsidy from November 2019 to June low-income provinces. As of June 2020,
2020 under the Rice Farmer Financial the LBP has released PhP2.61 billion to
Assistance (RFFA). This augmented the 523,165 farmer beneficiaries at PhP5,000
income of 597,404 small rice farmers97 in per farmer.
33 priority provinces, who each received
PhP5,000 cash subsidy through the LBP
and DBP.

97 Rice farmers tilling 0.5 to 2 hectares who are listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).
98 Rice farmers tilling one hectare or less who are listed in the RSBSA.

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Mitigating the Impact of Natural To control the spread of ASF, we

Disasters and Disease Outbreaks on implemented the “1-7-10” 99 kilometer-
Agricultural Productivity radius isolation protocol for ASF-
affected barangays and set up “24-7”
animal quarantine checkpoints, which
Managing the ASF Outbreak. The
helped restrict the movement and sale of
ASF has infected hogs in 230 cities
infected hogs. Heightened biosecurity
and municipalities in 25 provinces in
measures were also implemented
Luzon and Mindanao. As of June 26,
through the installation of footbaths
2020, we have culled 299,956 animals,
in major airports and seaports, and
affecting 34,732 hog raisers, mainly
road disinfection facility for animal
from the hardest hit provinces of
transport vehicles at the South Luzon
Bulacan, Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija.
Expressway (SLEX)-STAR Tollway.
To help small hog raisers alleviate their
losses, we released PhP670.25 million
Agricultural Insurance Coverage. From
to 14,158 backyard hog raisers in 14
July 2016 to May 2020, we provided
provinces at PhP5,000 for each hog
PhP259 billion in agricultural insurance
culled. In addition, we are distributing
protection to around 7.4 million farmers
over 430,000 chickens, 1,500 carabaos,
and fisherfolk, and paid PhP9.12 billion
2,555 cattle, and 3,260 goats, which
in indemnification claims to more than
could provide alternative livelihood
one million farmers and fisherfolk who
to the affected hog raisers.
were affected by natural calamities
and pests or disease outbreaks. Our
campaign to promote crop insurance
has gained traction due to the increase
in insurance coverage for farmland
planted with rice (25 percent), corn
(44 percent), and high value crops (11
percent) from 2018 to 2019.

Credit Programs for Distressed Farmers

and Fisherfolk. We aim to empower
distressed small farmers and fisherfolk
by providing an array of timely and
affordable credit programs under the
SURE Loan Assistance Program to restore
livelihood, which were affected by man-
DA Secretary Dar inspects the livestock
assistance given to the ASF-affected hog made and natural disasters (see Table 4.5).
raisers in Rodriguez, Rizal in February 2020.
Photo Credit: DA

99 The 1-7-10 protocol provides that hogs will be prohibited from entering or leaving the area within a one-kilometer radius from the site of infection or ground
zero, and the site shall eventually be depopulated. Within a seven-kilometer radius, hogs would be under surveillance with restricted movement, and blood
testing would be done. For areas within a 10-kilometer radius from ground zero, mandatory monitoring and reporting of swine disease occurrences shall be
implemented.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Table 4.5 DA-ACPC Various SURE Programs

Fund Exposure/
Loan
Target Beneficiaries Loan Terms No. of Beneficiaries
Program
(2016 to June 2020)
SURE-Loan Small farmers and • Loans up to PhP25,000 at PhP342.20 million to
Assistance fisherfolk affected zero interest 21,730 beneficiaries
Program by disasters in areas • Payable up to three
declared under state years, based on capacity
of calamity to pay
SURE-Aid Backyard hog raisers • Loans up to PhP30,000 PhP18.44 million to
Hogs from ASF-affected at zero interest, no 759 beneficiaries
areas collateral
• Payable up to three years
SURE-Taal Farmers and • Emergency loans up to PhP18.65 million to
fisherfolk affected PhP25,000 747 beneficiaries
by the Taal Volcano • Recovery loans up to
eruption PhP150,000
• Payable in eight years at
zero interest
SURE-Aid Farmers tilling one • One-time, zero interest PhP2.49 billion to
Program - hectare and below, loan of PhP15,000 164,274 beneficiaries
Small Rice who were affected by • Payable up to eight years
Farmers low palay prices
Source: DA-ACPC

The President, assisted by DA Secretary Dar and Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, leads the
turnover of PhP41 million worth of financial assistance to the Provincial Government of Batangas
on January 14, 2020, including a PhP30 million credit facility for farmers and fisherfolk affected by
the Taal Volcano eruption, through the Mt. Carmel Rural Bank.
Photo Credit: DA

Building Agricultural Infrastructure

Before I became President, I reckoned that the inadequacy of agricultural

infrastructure has been the bane of agricultural productivity. We looked into
different approaches to address this immediately such as the following:

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 PRP
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2020

DA Secretary Dar and Senator Cynthia Villar The President, assisted by DAR Secretary John
lead the turnover ceremonies for the Israeli- Castriciones, leads the ceremonial distribution
funded irrigation project in Barangay Wawa of Certificate of Land Ownership Award
Ibayo, Lumban, Laguna on October 28, 2019. (CLOA) for BARMM farmers in Cotabato City
Photo Credit: DA on December 23, 2019.
Photo Credit: PCOO

Farm-to-market roads (FMRs). From Distributed More Lands to More

July 2016 to June 2020, we completed Farmers under the Agrarian Reform
3,678 FMR projects with an aggregate Program
length of 2,553 kilometers amounting
to PhP23.42 billion; Since the beginning of this
Administration, I have been very vocal
Irrigation services. From July 2016 about my aspiration to emancipate
to March 2020, we installed 46,303 our poor and landless farmers from
small scale irrigation projects, and historical distortions in the allocation
constructed 885 communal irrigation of land resources. In this regard, we
projects, which provided water distributed 168,741 hectares, mostly
to 44,231 hectares of farmlands, private agricultural lands, to 118,715
benefitting more than 7,000 farming agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs)
communities; and nationwide from July 2016 to May 2020.
This leaves us with a balance of 519,743
Production and postharvest facilities. hectares to be distributed by June 2022.
From July 2016 to March 2020, we We also trained over two million ARB
established and upgraded 12,540 family members and assisted more
production facilities (e.g., seed than 700,000 ARBs to access credit and
storage, stock farms, greenhouses, feed microfinance over the same period to
mills, rain shelters) and constructed/ help maximize their productivity. In
maintained 1,025 postharvest facilities the remaining period of my term, I
(e.g., drying pavements, cold storage, reiterate this commitment and convey
grain silos, palay sheds, abattoirs, my personal assurance that we shall give
biogas digesters), which benefitted our remaining landless farmers the land
33,536 farmers’ groups. that they have been tilling (see Figure 4.3).

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Figure 4.3 Agrarian Reform Accomplishments

(July 2016 to May 2020)
CAR REGION II

3,297 4,261 3,763 2,655 Number of hectares of land

distributed to ARBs
REGION I REGION IV-A

869 600 5,603 4,570

REGION III REGION V

10,044

REGION IV-B
11,756 10,061

REGION VIII
6,813
168,741
2,966 2,813 4,257 2,837

REGION VI REGION X

15,379 19,539 9,970 4,770

Number of ARBs covered by
REGION VII CARAGA land distribution

6,407 4,264 7,725 5,278

REGION IX REGION XI

7,789 5,035 7,217 5,745

BARMM REGION XII 118,715

3,130 1,468 70,264 36,311

Source: DAR
Protecting the Ancestral Domain of Domain Titles (CADTs) covering 692,000
Indigenous Peoples (IPs) hectares, benefitting about 206,000
IPs nationwide. We also provided
Even before I became President, it has been PhP5 million worth of merit-based
my advocacy to end the social injustices scholarship to 106 IP students. In the last
committed against our IPs by giving them two years of my term, we shall prioritize
the land due them. According to the the processing and approval of CADT
National Commission on Indigenous applications in the remaining 327 IP
Peoples (NCIP), about 50 percent of our communities influenced by the CTGs.
IPs are living below the poverty line.
I am aware that social injustice is the
reason why 327 IP communities remain
under the influence of the unscrupulous
communist terrorist group (CTG), which
continues to spread its forlorn ideology.
However, this situation only strengthens
my resolve to recognize the rights of our
IPs on ancestral domain; self-governance The President shares a light moment with
and empowerment; and cultural integrity. IP representatives during the Joint 69 th
NSC and 70 th NICA Founding Anniversary
held at the PICC Complex, Pasay City on
During my term, we processed 38 July 31, 2019.
applications for Certificate of Ancestral Photo Credit: RTVM

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2020

Photo Credit: MWSS

Providing Clean Water, Decent Housing,

and Sustainable Energy

Improved water supply and access to stand firmly against the companies
clean and potable water that had treated the provision of
water services as purely business
I have always believed that access and without regard for the needs of
to clean, potable, and affordable Filipinos. We eventually prevented
water is more than a public need but further unjust increase in water
a fundamental right by all Filipino rates stemming from the anticipated
families. As water is becoming harder payment of an arbitration award in
to access, especially in far-flung areas favor of the water concessionaires,
of the country, we relentlessly pursued which would have been shouldered
efforts to ensure sufficient, safe, and
affordable water supply.

Hence, I was dismayed upon

discovering that there were several
grossly disadvantageous provisions
in the current concession agreements
for water services in Metro Manila
and parts of Luzon, which were
clearly prejudicial to the public. This
was all the more disconcerting given Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador S.
the apparent unjustified water rate Panelo and Solicitor General Jose C. Calida
conduct a briefing in December 2019, on the
charges that had not been adequately government’s position on water concession
used to effectively develop key agreements and actions taken to protect the
water infrastructure and sewerage interests of consumers.
Photo Credit: PCOO
systems. Thus, it compelled us to

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

by the consuming public. We also

facilitated the review and correction
of the grossly disadvantageous
water concession agreements, and
other contracts entered into by the
government. As your chief public
servant, I am here not only to lead the
nation but also protect Filipinos from
abuse and deception. Hence, we shall
rectify this great injustice.

Infrastructure Projects 100 BBWSP-Treatment Water Plant in San

Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan
Meanwhile, we initiated numerous Photo Credit: MWSS
programs and projects to complement
these efforts. Below are some of Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project
our accomplishments to ensure the (BBWSP). The BBWSP targets to address
attainment of our target of bringing 95 ground water supply deficiency in the
percent 101 of households’ access to safe province of Bulacan as a result of over-
and affordable water supply by 2022: extraction, by supplying treated bulk

THE NEW CENTENNIAL WATER SOURCE-KALIWA DAM PROJECT

HEADWORKS COMPONENTS
BRGY. DARAITAN
(Elev. 175m-178m) PROPOSED RESETTLEMENT SITE
(Sitio Cablao, Brgy. Pagsangahan
Gen. Nakar, Quezon)

PROPOSED BRIDGE
(by DPWH) FULL SUPPLY WATER LEVEL
(Elev. 160m) KALIWA DAM
Inundation area = 291 hectares (Height=+60m)
Estimated watershed area = 98 sq.km

INTAKE STRUCTURE

27.7 km x 4m TUNNEL

New Centennial Water Source – Kaliwa Dam Project Map

Photo Credit: MWSS

100 MWSS, July 2020.

101 Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022; and Draft Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan, August 2018.

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water to its 23 water districts. The Angat Water Transmission Improvement

completed stages 1 and 2 of the project Project (AWTIP) – Tunnel no. 4.
currently supplies 388 million liters Through the construction of Tunnel no.
per day (MLD) to 12 water districts. 4, we improved the water transmission
The remaining 11 water districts will from Ipo Dam to La Mesa Dam. This
be supplied additional water upon facilitated the sufficient supply of raw
completion of Stage 3 of the project in water to various water treatment plants
2023. This shall increase the total treated and ensured stable raw water supply
bulk water to be supplied by the BBWSP in cases of disaster. The project was
to 475 MLD. Stage 3 of the project is also completed in June 2020, way ahead of
expected to develop a new water source its target in September 2020.
apart from Angat Dam.
Community Programs 103
New Centennial Water Source – Kaliwa
Dam Project (NCWS-KDP). To meet Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig para sa Lahat
the increasing water demand of Metro (SALINTUBIG) Program. We have
Manila, Rizal, and parts of Cavite, also completed the construction of
we are developing the NCWS-KDP 1,406 water projects for our waterless
as a new water source through the communities as of June 2020. These
construction of a 60-meter high dam and benefitted 757,303 households and
27.7-kilometer raw water conveyance brought the total completed water
tunnel. 102 It is envisioned to reduce total projects to 1,816 out of the 2,664 target
water dependence on Angat Dam. With sub-projects.
a gross reservoir volume of 57 million
cubic meter at full level, it is projected The successful and continued
to provide an additional 600 MLD of implementation of the SALINTUBIG
water to around 670,000 households Program gradually narrowed down the
(four million individuals) by 2024. As of water accessibility gap in the country
June 2020, the project has a 2.10 percent as we assisted 44 municipalities and
accomplishment rate. 39 barangays in graduating from
waterless status.

Assistance to Municipalities. We have

also assisted municipalities in the
delivery and implementation of
water services and projects through
the provision of financial assistance.
From July 2016 to June 2020, the LGUs
completed 2,988 water sub-projects
(out of 5,352 sub-projects since the
AWTIP at 99.86 percent physical
accomplishment
program began in 2013), which
Photo Credit: MWSS benefited 1.46 million households.

102 Kaliwa Dam Project Environmental Impact Statement, July 2019.

103 DILG, July 2020.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Water Conservation Measures Provided Housing for the Poor

In preparation for the dry season, Our Key Shelter Agencies provided
which we projected would decrease socialized and low-cost housing to
the normal operating level of Angat 742,480 low-income households as of
Dam, and to prevent a repeat of the June 2020 (see Table 4.6).107
serious water service interruptions
that affected Metro Manila and Rizal
Table 4.6 Consolidated Key Shelter
in March 2019, I issued Administrative
Agencies Accomplishments
Order no. 24 104 on March 18, 2020
(July 2016 to June 2020)
directing all government agencies to
strictly implement water conservation Housing
KSA
Units
measures.
National Housing Authority 182,250
With the completion and fast Social Housing Finance 69,950
implementation of programs and Corporation
measures we have adopted, we are not Pag-IBIG 337,010*
only on our way towards attaining 100
percent universal access to safe and Philippine Guarantee 153,270
Corporation**
affordable drinking water for all
by 2030 105 but also demonstrating Total 742,480
the success of government and private *Includes 11,963 socialized and low-cost housing units
sector bayanihan in effecting real pending for take-out or claim of corresponding loans
change in our communities. **EO no. 58, s. 2018, which was issued on July 23, 2018,
mandated the merger of the Home Guarantee Corporation
and the Philippine Export-Import Credit Agency to prevent
Provided Decent and Affordable operational redundancies between the agencies, among others.
Housing Source: DHSUD, Pag-IBIG

A decent and affordable home is We also continue to provide shelter

fundamental in empowering Filipino security for informal settler families
families and building safe and secure (ISFs) through our community-driven
communities. Guided by our goal programs as we strive to attain our
to directly provide adequate and target of assisting 167,613 ISFs by
affordable housing to the country’s 2021. 108 In this regard, from July 2016
1.5 million households 106 by 2022, we to May 2020, we were able to assist
undertook the following under the 82,203 ISFs (see Table 4.7). 109
Building Adequate, Livable, Affordable,
and Inclusive Filipino Communities or Moving forward, we are continuously
BALAI Filipino program: updating our plans of action, including

104 Entitled “Mandating All National Government Agencies, Government -Owned or -Controlled Corporations, and State Universities and Colleges to Strictly
Implement Water Conservation Measures.”
105 UNDP Sustainable Development Goal 6.
106 PDP 2017-2022, National Shelter Program direct housing assistance targets from 2017-2022.
107 DHSUD, June 2020; Pag-IBIG, July 2020.
108 Target outcome from July 2016 to December 2021.
109 SHFC, June 2020.

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2020

recovery targets, to ensure that the remaining target of assisting 85,410 ISFs will
be achieved by December 2021. 110

Table 4.7 Accomplishments of Community-Driven Programs

(July 2016 to May 2020)
No. of Projects Loans Extended No. of ISFs
Program
Implemented (in PhP million) Assisted
Community Mortgage Program 369 3,818.72 61,441
High Density Housing Program 31 4,358.13 16,882
Marawi City Shelter Project 3 70.86 1,450
North-South Commuter Railway 1 169.24 2,430
Extension Project (Lot Acquisition
Phase 1)
TOTAL 404 8,416.95 82,203
Source: SHFC

“Nakakatuwa po kasi na sa tulong ng Social “Masayang masaya po ako dahil tama ‘yung
Housing, napabilis ang pagkakaroon namin ng desisyon namin na lumipat mula sa tinutuluyan
bahay. Nakakatuwa rin na sa murang edad po namin dati sa ilalim ng tulay. Maraming
naming ito, na-achieve na namin ‘yung goal na maraming salamat po sa pamahalaan sa
magkaroon ng sariling bahay.” pagtitiwala sa aming kakayahan para umayos
ang buhay ng aming pamilya.”
ANN MARQUEZ
Member of the Policarpio Ville Homeowners SALVADOR ALCARAZ and Family
Association, Inc. in San Jose Del Monte City, Among the 16 families who received transfer
Bulacan certificates of title for new homes in Elfa Ville
Photo Credit: SHFC Homeowners Association in San Jose Del Monte City,
Bulacan in August 2019.
Photo Credit: SHFC

Extended Socialized Housing to Low- Pag-IBIG members to acquire or

income Earners111 improve their homes, we continue to
extend socialized housing loans under
To provide greater opportunities the Affordable Housing Loan Program,
for minimum-wage and low-income which offers the lowest interest rate

110 For 2020 and 2021, the SHFC targets to assist 35,000 and 60,000 ISFs, respectively. These targets are actual projects in various stages of project
implementation. To facilitate the completion of these projects, modification of work processes has been adopted, such as review and evaluation of
application and compliance documents through digital channels.
111 Pag-IBIG, May 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

at three percent (see Figure 4.4). From Increased the Country’s Power Generating
July 2016 to June 2020, we were able to Capacity and Energy Accessibility
finance 97,611 socialized housing units,
totaling PhP36.94 billion in loans. Aside We managed to increase our installed
from keeping interest rates low, we also and dependable capacities to secure
reduced the insurance premiums to an our power supply and prevent power
affordable PhP2,445.30 for a socialized outages nationwide (see Table 4.8).
home loan of up to PhP580,000.

Table 4.8 Philippines’ Installed

Figure 4.4 Affordable Housing Loan and Dependable Capacities
Interest Rates (as of December 2019)

REGULAR HOUSING LOAN Installed* Dependable**

Source (in megawatts (in MW)
[MW])
From the lowest
offered rate of Now at only Coal 10,417 9,743
Renewable 7,399 6,691
6.985% 5.375% Energy
• Hydropower 3,760 3,508
per annum per annum
3-Year Fixing Rate 1-Year Fixing Rate • Geothermal 1,928 1,792
since January 2014 beginning February 2018 • Solar 921 737
• Wind 427 427
AFFORDABLE HOUSING LOAN
For Minimum-Wage Earners • Biomass 363 227
Natural Gas 3,453 3,286
From the lowest
offered rate of Now at only Oil-based 4,262 3,015
TOTAL 25,531 22,735
4.5% 3% Total in 2016 21,423 19,097
per annum per annum Increase 4,108 3,638
5-Year Fixing Rate 1st 5 years of loan term *Maximum amount of electricity a power plant can produce
since January 2014 beginning May 2017 **Load carrying ability of an electric power plant
Source: Pag-IBIG Source: DOE

Ensured Adequate and Reliable Energy112 In line with our efforts to ensure that
adequate power is generated in far-flung
We recognize the enormous demand areas, we have increased the number of
for adequate power as we pursue powerplants with 24-hour electricity
our economic and infrastructure service from 41 in July 2016 to 78 as of
development plans. With this, and July 2020, through the National Power
as we aim to achieve 100 percent Corporation’s Small Power Utilities
electrification of all targeted and Group. Meanwhile, we were able to
identified unelectrified households by energize 23.23 million households, as
2022, we have undertaken the following: of December 2019 (see Table 4.9), in line

112 DOE, July 2020.

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2020

with our primary agenda of expanding no. 30, in 2017 to lead the national
household electricity access throughout government in harmonizing,
the country. integrating, and streamlining processes
for the development of Energy Projects
of National Significance, while upholding
Table 4.9 Household Electrification
transparency and accountability,
(as of December 2019)
among concerned agencies.
Major Served Remaining
Island Households Unserved Facilitated the Development of
Group Households Renewable Energy Resources
Luzon 14,489,298 295,378
While we desire to attain energy
Visayas 4,368,043 269,280
security at the soonest possible time,
Mindanao 4,372,525 1,053,606 we recognize the need to fully support
TOTAL 23,229,866 1,618,264 the development and utilization of
our renewable resources that are
Source: DOE
indigenous to the country. Indeed, the
Philippines is blessed with abundant
Promoted Efficient Energy Use
sources of renewable energy, including
biomass, solar, hydro, ocean, wind,
In April 2019, I signed into law RA
and geothermal. Thus, our country
no. 11285 or the Energy Efficiency
continues to have the highest renewable
and Conservation Act to enhance the
energy generation mix within the
country’s efficient use of energy and
ASEAN region. It accounted for more
finally adopt the same as a national
than 33 percent of the Philippines’ total
way of life for all Filipinos.
primary energy supply in 2018. 113
Improved Processing of Energy Projects

We have continuously sought to make

doing business easier in the energy
industry to attract more participants
that could put up power plants, and
transmission and distribution facilities.
In this regard, I signed into law RA no.
11234 or the Energy Virtual One-Stop
Shop Act to rid the energy sector of red
tape and promote faster and simplified
permitting process, thereby allowing
competent investors to enter the market. The President listens to a briefing on
solar energy by Solar Philippines at its
factory in Batangas on August 23, 2017.
I also created the Energy Investment Photo Credit: PCOO
Coordinating Council, through EO
113 The ASEAN regional target set forth in the ASEAN Plan of Action on Energy Cooperation seeks to increase the renewable energy component of the ASEAN
total primary energy mix to 23 percent by 2025.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

In pursuit of our target to gradually provide additional power to 330,000

reduce the nation’s dependence households in General Santos City and
on traditional energy sources, we Sarangani Province by 2022 and serve
encouraged our private partners to part of the increasing energy demand in
initiate the development of several Mindanao. It is expected to commence
renewable energy projects, including operations in 2022.
the following:

Solar Philippines Factory, which has

an annual production capacity of 2.5
million panels and aims to provide
greater access and affordable solar
panels to Filipinos; 114

The President, with Senator Go and Alson

Consolidated Resources Inc. (ACR) Director
Nicasio Alcantara, inspects the scale model of
the Saguil Hydropower Projects in Sarangani
on November 22, 2019.
Photo Credit: PCOO

Ensured Safe, Reliable, and Affordable

The President, together with DOE Secretary Power in Mindanao 116
Alfonso G. Cusi, views the map of areas
powered by the Tumingad Solar Power
Project in Romblon on August 21, 2019 Once beset with frequent power
Photo Credit: PCOO interruptions due to insufficient
energy capacity, we have substantially
Tumingad Solar Power Project, which is improved the power situation in
the country’s first and largest hybrid Mindanao since 2016. We now generate
solar-diesel microgrid with a battery more power in the region.
having a 7.5 MW-peak capacity. It
supports daytime power requirements We marked another milestone when we
of around 43,000 households in Tablas inaugurated Phase 2 of the 105-megawatt
Island, Romblon through the plant’s coal-fired power plant of the Sarangani
Heat Recovery Steam Generator;115 and Energy Corporation (SEC) in November
2019. Together with SEC Phase 1, which
Siguil Hydropower Project, which began operations in April 2016, these
is a 15.1-MW run-of-the-river power plants have provided a combined
hydroelectric power plant that aims to power capacity of at least 237 MW to
114 Solar Philippines, August 2017.
115 Sunwest Water and Electric Co., Inc., August 2019.
116 DOE, PCOO, and Japan Gas Corporation, November 2019.

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Sarangani Energy
Corporation Coal-Fired
Power Plant Phase 1 in
Sarangani
Photo Credit:
Alson’s Power Group

more than 2.15 million households in expected to commence commercial

Sarangani Province; and Butuan, Cagayan operations in December 2020. 118
de Oro, Dapitan, Digos, Dipolog, General
Santos, Iligan, Kidapawan, Koronadal, We are also fast-tracking the
and Pagadian Cities. implementation of the Visayas-
Mindanao Interconnection Project,
which will enable the sharing of power
capacities between the Luzon, Visayas,
and Mindanao Grids. This means that
should there be a need for power in
any island, supply could be provided
by other grids. As of March 2020, the
construction of the submarine cable,
substation, and transmission line of
The President, together with Energy
the project was at 37.53 percent, 51.64
Regulatory Commission Chairperson Agnes percent, and 57.02 percent completion,
Devanadera (left) and ACR Chairperson respectively.
Tomas Alcantara (right), leads the
ceremonial switch-on of Phase 2 of the SEC
on November 22, 2019. Tacloban
Photo Credit: PCOO
Ormoc
Bacolod Leyte
Other energy projects that started
operating in 2019 were the GNPower Cebu

Kauswagan U1-U3 (450 MW), Asiga Lapu-Lapu

Hydroelectric Power Plant (8 MW), and Bohol
Surigao
Astronergy Development Gensan, Inc. Tagbilaran
Dumaguete
Solar Power Plant (25 MW).117
Butuan

Meanwhile, we commenced in June 2017 Cagayan de Oro

Mindanao
the trial operations of the Wholesale Iligan

Electricity Spot Market in Mindanao, Visayas-Mindanao Interconnection

which will serve as a streamlined Project Map
Photo Credit: NGCP
trading platform for electricity. It is
117 Installed capacity.
118 DOE, PCOO, and Japan Gas Corporation, November 2019.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Dionesio Ampontas, a 70-year-old proud graduate of the Alternative Learning System in Panabo
City, Davao del Norte, shows that it is never too late to learn.
Photo Credit: DepEd

Ensuring Greater Access to

Quality Education and Training

Education is one of the most essential ensuring the delivery of quality and
aspects of human development. It relevant education and training. We
empowers our people to realize their have backed this up with the allocation
personal goals and actively contribute of adequate funding for education. The
to national development. Thus, it is DepEd and its attached agencies, State
my commitment to provide every Universities and Colleges (SUCs),
Filipino this fundamental enabler by Commission on Higher Education
making quality education affordable (CHED), and TESDA collectively
and accessible to all. received the largest portion of the
2020 budget at PhP692.6 billion. 119
The reforms we have implemented
in the education sector are crucial in

119 DBM, January 2020.

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Provided a Conducive Learning aligned with the K to 12 curriculum.

Environment and Inclusive Education
for All 120 Alongside these reforms, we also
increased the number of teachers. From
While we continue to build upon existing 2016 to 2019, we hired 194,273 teachers,
programs, we remain committed to covering around 95 percent of the 203,887
creating a positive learning experience teaching positions created. This included
for our students. From July 2016 7,906 teachers hired in 2019 to help
up to May 2020, a total of 137,098 improve teacher-learner ratio.
new classrooms were constructed
nationwide.121 This included 35,052 In line with efforts to further bring
new classrooms constructed in 2019. education to all Filipinos, we extended
In addition, 1,906 school workshop financial assistance to 2.45 million
buildings and other school facilities grantees of programs that provide tuition
were constructed, rehabilitated, and subsidies to students who wish to pursue
improved. Furthermore, 7,876 technical secondary education in public and private
vocational laboratories were also schools (see Figure 4.5).
constructed last year. These helped
us maintain the classroom-learner
Figure 4.5 Government Assistance
ratio within the 1:40 standard amidst
and Subsidy Programs
increased enrollment. We also produced (Academic Year [AY] 2019-2020)
18.64 million textbooks and other
instructional materials to adequately
EDUCATION SERVICE
provide learning resources that are CONTRACTING
Tuition subsidy for qualified
elementary students to pursue
secondary education in private
schools

1,078,778 grantees

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

VOUCHER
Financial assistance for senior
high school (SHS) students to
enroll in non-DepEd public and
private institutions offering SHS

1,284,480 grantees

JOINT DELIVERY VOUCHER

Financial assistance for SHS
students to enroll in qualified
The President and DepEd Secretary Leonor technical, vocational, and
M. Briones lead the groundbreaking of the livelihood non-DepEd public and
General Gregorio del Pilar National High private institutions
School in Bulakan, Bulacan on January 10,
2019. 88,933 grantees
Photo Credit: PIA
Source: DepEd

120 DepEd, July 2020.

121 DPWH, July 2020.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

We likewise improved our Alternative education for our Filipino youth,

Learning System (ALS) to support out- enriching their learning potential. In AY
of-school youth and adults by reinforcing 2017-2018, we subsidized PhP8 billion
the integration of technical-vocational worth of tuition, benefiting 889,000
training under the program. This is to students enrolled in SUCs, to lessen
enable ALS learners who were unable the burden on parents in sending their
to enroll in formal basic education to children to college.
complete the program through their
acquired competencies. In 2019, 26,889 Access to Free Tertiary Education
Community Learning Centers offered the
improved ALS program. The timely passage of the landmark
Universal Access to Quality Tertiary
For AY 2019-2020, 27.03 million students Education Act (UAQTEA) or RA no. 10931
enrolled in formal education, slightly in August 2017, which institutionalized
higher than the previous school year’s the Free Higher Education (FHE), Tertiary
27.02 million enrollees. However, there Education Subsidy (TES), Student
was a decrease in enrolment in ALS from Loan Program, and Free Technical and
823,013 to 739,872 in the same period. Vocational Education and Training
(TVET), enabled greater access to college
Reshaped Higher Education to and vocational education (see Figure 4.6).
Promote Filipino Ingenuity
To complement the implementation of
In the past four years of my the UAQTEA, we provided educational
Administration, we paved the way for support to Filipino undergraduates
accessible and equitable quality tertiary through various programs (see Table 4.10).

Figure 4.6 UAQTEA Scholarship Programs

STUDENT LOAN FREE TVET

FHE TES
PROGRAM
• PhP14.7 billion for 1.18 PhP6.3 billion to 284,000 poor Program had not 67,339
AY 2018-2019

million (first semester) but deserving students yet started, pending graduates
and 1.13 million (second the finalization of
semester) students guidelines
• 111 SUCs and 78 CHED-
recognized universities
and colleges

• PhP17.2 billion for 1.34 • PhP23.7 billion to 412,488 and 1,079 applications 23,672 graduates
AY 2019-2020

million (first semester) 383,567 poor but deserving reviewed for AY

and 1.23 million (second students for the first and 2020-2021
semester) students second semesters, respectively,
• 112 SUCs and 103 CHED- • PhP1.8 billion for 147,512
recognized universities student-beneficiaries under the
and colleges Tulong Dunong Program

Source: CHED

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2020

Table 4.10 Other Assistance to Students

Beneficiaries
Programs
AY 2018-2019 AY 2019-2020
Student Financial Assistance PhP4.65 million to PhP3.15 million to
Programs (StuFAPs) 374,538 students 157,263 students

Cash Grant for Medical Students PhP61.24 million to PhP161.96 million

1,688 students (tuition 1,789 students (tuition
fees only) fees plus PhP37,000
stipend per year)
Expanded Tertiary Education 2,501 graduates Ongoing evaluation of
Equivalency and Accreditation applicants
Program (ETEEAP)122
Source: CHED

Fostered Quality Education

Figure 4.7 Fostering
To optimize our investments in quality Competitiveness of HEIs
education for the Filipino youth, we
expanded our efforts to upgrade the Assisted 6,417 faculty
capacity and quality of instruction, and under the Scholarships for Local
Graduate Studies
fostered competitiveness of local higher
education institutions (HEIs) (see Figure 4.7):
Signed 6
new international
cooperation agreements on
higher education

Provided 34,478 grants

for research and thesis/
dissertation papers

Assisted 150 local HEIs

develop 1,007 institutional
linkages with top international
universities

Assisted 246 SUC faculty

CHED Chairman J. Prospero De Vera III scholars to pursue graduate
meets with beneficiaries of Free Higher studies in the United Kingdom,
Education in Talisay, Negros Occidental on United States, Australia, France,
June 18, 2019. Hong Kong, and Canada
Photo Credit: CHED
Source: CHED

122 ETEEAP is a comprehensive educational assessment program that accredits and gives equivalencies to the knowledge, skills, and values gained through
relevant work experience of high school and/or college-level students. It also gives opportunity for out-of-school youth to obtain an equivalent college
degree.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

“I thank God for this opportunity to be a government scholar, and to

President Rodrigo R. Duterte, whose dream is to make our country better
through education.”
Cherry Vee D. Siawan (Matigsalug Indigenous Group)
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
University of Mindanao
Photo Credit: CHED

“Tertiary Education Subsidy had a crucial role in my college education,

and I believe that it will continue to be of great help to the Filipino youth.
I thank President Rodrigo Duterte for helping me achieve my dreams!”
Pia O. Almeria
Cum Laude, Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education
Eastern Visayas State University
Photo Credit: CHED

We have likewise expanded the access of Filipino students to international

quality education through the passage of RA no. 11448 or the Transnational
Higher Education Act, which I signed into law in August 2019. This will allow
local HEIs to partner with foreign universities to gain better access to globally
accepted higher learning standards, expertise, and degree programs.

Upgraded Competencies for TVET

In our effort to improve alternative means of instruction for students, who opted
to pursue TVET, we increased the number of scholars and upgraded the quality
of available skills training programs. From 2016 to February 2020, we produced
over 1.6 million scholar-graduates, who are now helping augment their family’s
income and contributing to the country’s economy (see Table 4.11).

Table 4.11 TVET Scholarship Programs

(2016 to February 2020)
Graduates
Programs
2016 2017 2018 2019-2020
Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) 271,561 316,289 346,486 265,166
Private Education Student Financial
18,462 19,674 21,042 20,364
Assistance (PESFA) 
Special Training for Employment Program
33,592 65,190 68,491 94,415
(STEP)
UAQTEA123 - - 67,339 23,672
Sub-Total 323,615 401,153 503,358 403,617
Total 1,631,743
Source: TESDA
123 Started its implementation in 2018.

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Our efforts to upgrade the competencies of our graduates have significantly improved
the employability of TVET graduates from 66.25 percent in 2016 to 84.15 percent in
2019.124 The high employment rate of graduates indicates that more Filipinos are being
given better opportunities to uplift their living condition. Thus, my Administration will
continue to support the TESDA in ensuring that we meet our TVET goals (see Table 4.12).

Table 4.12 TVET Accomplishments

Indicator Baseline Accomplishment Target125

2016 2017 2018 2019 2022
Certification rate of TVET
91.3 93 92 93 87
graduates increased (%)126
Employment rate of TVET
66.25 71.87 68.58 84.15 69.39
graduates increased (%)
PESFA beneficiaries increased
18,462 37,928 57,746 78,466 150,000
(cumulative)

TWSP beneficiaries increased 1. 2

271,561 584,371 906,500 1,206,871
(cumulative) million
Source: TESDA

Sustaining the Provision of Social Safety Nets

No country can truly maximize her empower them to become active

productive potential unless each and participants in development.
every citizen enjoys a comfortable
and secure life. Unfortunately, Strengthened the Pantawid Pamilyang
many Filipino households remain Pilipino Program (4Ps)127
vulnerable to crises and risks. Thus,
we provided disadvantaged Filipinos The 4Ps, which was launched in 2008
the essential social safety nets to help and institutionalized in 2019 when I
them meet their immediate needs as signed into law RA no. 11310 or the
they transition to a better life. Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program
Act, continues to be one of our
It is also my hope that the improvements primary social safety net programs.
we have made in our social protection It seeks to break the intergenerational
programs shall continue to lessen cycle of poverty through investments
the adverse impact our economic in human capital, particularly on the
reforms may have had on our people, health and education of children who
particularly the less fortunate, and belong to poor households, through

124 2019 Study on the Employability of TVET Graduates.

125 Per PDP 2017-2022 Results matrix, NEDA cumulative targets for PESFA and TWSPI (at 25,000 and 200,000 beneficiaries per year, respectively), and
National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP) 2018-2022 Annual Target Indicator, on the employment rate of TVET graduates.
126 The TESDA informed NEDA that, among others, the certification rate was conservatively targeted due to the eight percent average growth rate from 1995-
2016, and the low annual average increase of 1.33 percent, which was observed from 2011 to 2016.
127 DSWD, June 2020.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

the provision of cash grants for a We have constantly increased the

maximum of seven years. program’s budget from PhP62.67
billion in 2016 to PhP108.77 billion
From July 2016 to May 2020, the in 2020. This includes the provision
program covered 41,632 barangays in of PhP600 monthly rice allowance to
all 145 cities and 1,482 municipalities all active and compliant households
in 80 provinces nationwide, with 4.31 since 2017.
million household beneficiaries served
(see Tables 4.13 and 4.14, and Figure 4.8). 128
Figure 4.8 Target Household
Beneficiaries vis-à-vis
Table 4.13 4Ps Household Program Budget
Beneficiaries
(as of May 2020) 108.77
8.00 100
Region Households Served 89.41 89.75
78.19
NCR 220,751 6.00 75
62.67
CAR 60,252

PhP Billion
4.621 4.402
Million
4.400 4.400 4.400
I 205,616 4.00 50

II 105,197
2.00 25
III 293,878
IV-A 317,302
0.00
IV-B 194,902 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

V 368,314
Household Budget
VI 321,301 Beneficiaries (in PhP billions)
VII 285,368 (in millions)

VIII 280,243 Source: DSWD

IX 299,006
We have continously improved the
X 266,556 distribution of grants through the
XI 257,568 DSWD’s collaboration with the LBP.
XII 248,709 We are also engaging other service
CARAGA 189,070 providers such as local rural banks and
BARMM 397,214 cooperatives as partner conduits to better
Total 4,311,247 facilitate the release of cash assistance.
Source: DSWD

The 4Ps is a commitment that the Philippine government has been continuously
upholding to give poor families a fighting chance to break away from the
intergenerational cycle of poverty.

128 DSWD, July 2020.

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2020

Table 4.14 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Packages129

Amount released
Type of Grant Amount of Grant
(PhP Billion)
•PhP300 every month per child in daycare and
elementary school
Education Grant 24.49 • PhP500 every month per child in junior high
school
•PhP700 every month per child in senior high
school
Health and •PhP750 per month for each household over a
21.38
Nutrition Grant period of 12 months
Rice Subsidy 16.74 •PhP7,200 per year at PhP600 per month
Source: DSWD

In September 2019, we launched the 30.46 percent (606,074) are at the self-
nationwide assessment of the 4Ps to sufficiency level (level 3), and only 0.29
check the improvement in the lives of percent (5,803) are classified under
the beneficiaries using the Social Welfare the survival level (level 1).130 While
and Development Indicators (SWDI) assessment of beneficiaries is conducted
tool of the DSWD. Under the SWDI, yearly, within the year, we regularly
the households’ well-being is measured monitor their status and provide the
according to three levels, i.e., survival, appropriate interventions to those who
subsistence, or self-sufficiency. are at levels 1 and 2 until they achieve
level 3 status and are able to graduate
from the program.
READY TO GRADUATE
FROM THE PROGRAM We have likewise intensified the
*interventions at each monitoring of the compliance of
stage until self-sufficiency
reached
beneficiaries with the conditionalities
SELF-SUFFICIENCY
of the 4Ps to serve as basis for
SUBSISTENCE
release of grants. I am pleased to
note that compliance with the three
SURVIVAL
conditionalities (education, health, and
family development sessions) among
the 4Ps beneficiaries is at 95.89 percent.
The result of the 2019 SWDI assessment
showed that out of the 1.98 million As we continue to empower and build
beneficiaries assessed, majority or 69.25 the socioeconomic resilience of the poor
percent (1.36 million) are classified and vulnerable, we have also prioritized
within the subsistence level (level 2); qualified-household beneficiaries of

129 DSWD, June 2020.

130 In the survival level, the beneficiary has no internal and external resources, thus, the households are unable to resolve problems and survive in a daily
basis; in the subsistence level, the households have some resources and alternatives to surpass basic needs daily; while in the self-sufficiency level, the
households have other sources of income and can stand without interventions from the government.

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Reaping the fruits of hard labor

“Taos puso po akong nagpapasalamat na kami ay naging

bahagi ng 4Ps sa loob ng maraming taon. Malaki po ang
naitulong ng programa sa akin bilang isang ina. Naging
malaking tulong ang mga natatanggap namin kada
dalawang buwan na cash grant mula sa programa, lalong-
lalo na sa pagsuporta sa pag-aaral ng aking mga anak.
Bilang isang miyembro ng programa sa loob ng ilang
taon, masasabi ko na ako ay handa nang grumaduate sa
programa upang mabigyan ng oportunidad na mapabilang
Mrs. Clarissa Mendiola and ang iba pang katulad ko na nangangailangan”.
her family, a 4Ps beneficiary
Photo Credit: DSWD Source: DSWD

the 4Ps in the Sustainable Livelihood

Program (SLP), giving them access
to gainful employment or livelihood
opportunities (see Table 4.15).

Table 4.15 Household Beneficiaries of

the Sustainable Livelihood Program
(2016 to 2nd Quarter 2020)
Percentage
Year Target Served
Accomplishment The KALIPI SLP Association of Barangay
Poblacion, Kidapawan City takes pride in
2016 378,822 295,813 78 their quality-processed vegetables and fruit
2017 297,594 196,418 66 products.
Photo Credit: DSWD
2018 153,609 189,922 124
2019 53,131 55,779 105 Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN)
2020 58,399 2,244 3.8 Law to assist around 10 million
(2nd quarter) beneficiaries of the 4Ps, Social Pension
Pre-implementation and social preparations are done in the for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC)
first semester and grant is released in the second semester Program, and other poor households in
Source: DSWD
the Listahanan 131 database for three years,
Sustained the Unconditional Cash which will end this year. In particular,
Transfer (UCT) Program we provided unconditional cash grants
to poor households, families, and
We started the implementation of the individuals who may not benefit from
UCT in 2018 as a tax reform mitigation the lower income tax rates but may be
program under the Tax Reform for adversely affected by rising prices.
131 The Listahanan or the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) is an information management system that identifies who
and where the poor are in the country. The system makes available to national government agencies and other social protection stakeholders a database
of poor families as reference in identifying potential beneficiaries of social protection programs.

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Qualified beneficiaries were each out of poverty. The effective social

entitled to annual cash grants of protection measures we have been
PhP2,400 for 2018, with the amount implementing seek to bring us closer
increased to PhP3,600 for 2019 and to achieving the 14 percent poverty
2020. From 2018 to 2019, we released incidence target that we set under the
PhP43.4 billion to 9.2 million Philippine Development Plan 2017-
beneficiaries. 132 2022. 133

Sustained and more inclusive Provided Immediate Relief and

economic growth, as well as our social Facilitated Early Recovery of Disaster
protection programs, particularly the Victims/Survivors134
4Ps, have resulted in substantial drop
in poverty incidence (see Figure 4.9). In January 2020, Taal Volcano erupted,
From 23.5 percent of the population affecting thousands of families and
in 2015, the proportion of people causing millions of pesos in damages.
living below the poverty line was In response, we provided disaster
dramatically reduced to 16.7 percent assistance totaling PhP21.22 million
in 2018. This represents the lowest in food and non-food items to 122,062
poverty rate ever recorded equivalent families or 458,766 individuals who
to around 6 million Filipinos lifted were affected by the eruption.

Figure 4.9 Poverty Incidence Furthermore, we deployed quick

among Population response teams as camp managers,
(2015 and 2018) monitored the disaster-affected
localities, provided resource
POVERTY SUBSISTENCE augmentation to the LGUs, and
INCIDENCE (%) INCIDENCE (%)
distributed relief goods such as family
23.5 food packs, and hygiene and sleeping
25
kits.
20
16.7
Promoted the Rights of Children and
15
the Elderly
9.1
10
5.2 Supported Healthy Development of
5
Children. The right to adequate
nutrition is a fundamental right of
2015 2018 2015 2018
children. Consequently, to improve
children’s nutritional status during
6 M Filipinos the critical stage of child development,
were no longer poor in 2018 I signed into law RA no. 11037 or the
Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang
Source: NEDA
132 DSWD, July 2020.
133 NEDA, July 2020; PSA 2015 and 2018 Updated Statistics, June 2020.
134 DSWD, July 2020.

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The President, together with DSWD Secretary Bautista, leads the distribution of family food
packs to the victims affected by the Taal Volcano eruption during his visit to the Batangas
City Sports Coliseum on January 14, 2020.
Photo Credit: PCOO

Pilipino Act in 2018. It institutionalized

the National Feeding Program for
undernourished children.

The DepEd’s school-based feeding

program for undernourished children
has shown a positive impact in
mitigating nutrition deficiencies of
public school children and in keeping A pupil of Gaub Elementary School in
Cabatuan, Iloilo enjoys the nutritious food
them in school. In 2019, 1.8 million during the conduct of SFP.
children benefited from the program, Photo Credit: DSWD
which helped improve the nutritional
status of 71.28 percent of the total Table 4.16 SFP Children Served
beneficiaries. 135 (2016 to 2019)
Children Served
Year
We also continued the DSWD’s (in millions)
Supplementary Feeding Program 2016 1.80
(SFP) wherein children aged two to 2017 1.53
five who attend child development
2018 1.67
centers and supervised neighborhood
2019 1.69
play were provided with hot meals
*The next cycle of the SFP will commence at the start of AY
using indigenous or locally-produced
2020-2021.
food for 120 days (see Table 4.16). Source: DSWD
135 DepEd, July 2020.

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2020

Through the SFP, we aim to augment stipend of PhP500 released in lump

the feeding program for children that sum every semester.
is managed by LGUs; develop the
knowledge, attitude and practices We have continuously increased SPISC
of children, parents and caregivers target beneficiaries, from 1.38 million in
through health and nutrition 2016 to 3.80 million in 2019 and served
education; and improve and sustain 2.69 million in 2019 (See Figure 4.17).
the nutritional status of children.
Children beneficiaries are weighed
Table 4.17 SPISC Program
at the start of the feeding period and
Beneficiaries Served
three months thereafter to determine
(2016 to 2019)
their nutritional status. An amount of
PhP15 per child per day is allocated Indigent Senior Citizens
for a maximum of 120 feeding days. 136 Target Served
Year (in millions) (in millions)
Catered to the Needs of the Elderly. We 137
2016 1.38 1.31
continuously cater to the needs of our
indigent senior citizens who are frail, 2017 2.71 2.68
sickly, or with disability and those 2018 3.00 3.15
not receiving any pension or support
from their relatives for their basic 2019 3.80 2.69
needs. This is done through the SPISC Source: DSWD
Program, which provides a monthly

Presidential Adviser on Legislative Affairs SPISC beneficiaries receive their cash

Secretary Adelino Sitoy, holds a dialogue assistance from the DSWD at the Senior
with senior citizens on issues and challenges Citizens’ Center, Barangay Zone III, City of
pertaining to the Social Pension Program. Koronadal, South Cotabato in January 2020.
Photo Credit: Presidential Legislative Liaison Photos credit: DSWD
Office

136 DSWD, July 2020.

137 Ibid.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Continued Provision of Fuel

Discounts and Subsidies to Jeepney
Drivers and Operators under the
Pantawid Pasada Program 138

To mitigate the impact of higher fuel

prices on jeepney drivers and operators,
we collaborated with oil companies to
provide them with fuel discounts.

In 2018, we provided Pantawid Pasada

Fuel Subsidy Cards in the amount of
PhP5,000 to 113,953 beneficiaries. In
2019, we released the second tranche Pantawid Pasada Program Fuel Card
of the subsidy in the amount of Photo Credit: DOTr
PhP20,514.76 to 110,382 beneficiaries
nationwide.

Ensuring Access to
Responsive Health Care for All

I remained steadfast in my commitment financially incapacitated patients and

to prioritize the well-being of the their families, I signed into law RA no.
Filipino people. Following the passage 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act on
and implementation of RA no. 11223 or December 3, 2019. Anchored on the
the Universal Health Care Act in 2019, Universal Health Care Act, it adopts
we continued to institute key reforms a multi-sectoral and streamlined
and policies to combat corruption in approach in addressing health issues
the health sector and ensure that our and facilitates the provision of medical
people shall be able to enjoy the full and financial assistance through the
benefits of the law. I acknowledge that establishment of one-stop shops in
this is still work in progress but we public hospitals. This has allowed
are intensifying our efforts to provide our poor patients to focus more on
optimum healthcare services to all. getting well rather than worrying
about the time and resources needed
Established more Malasakit Centers139 to seek medical assistance from
different government agencies. As of
In the interest of easing the financial July 2020, 74 Malasakit centers have
burden of healthcare costs on poor and been established across the country to

138 DOTr, July 2020.

139 OPAV, Malasakit Center Database, July 2020.

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2020

efficiently provide access to medical financial assistance through representatives

from the DOH, PhilHealth, DSWD, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office
(PCSO), who are deployed to these centers (see Figure 4.10).

Figure 4.10 Malasakit Centers

(2018 to July 2020)

CAR 1 2 REGION II
Baguio City Ilagan City
Tuguegarao City
REGION 1 2
Dagupan City
5 REGION IV-A
Vigan City Batangas City
Lucena, Quezon
REGION III 6 Binangonan, Rizal
Antipolo City
Tarlac City City of San Fernando Trece Martires, Cavite
Bataan Malolos, Bulacan
Baler, Aurora Cabanatuan City 3 REGION V
NCR 15 Legazpi City
Naga City
Quezon City (6) San Juan City Sorsogon City
Manila Pasay City
Navotas City
Malabon City
Pasig City
Taguig City
7 REGION VIII
Valenzuela City Paranaque City Tacloban City Catbalogan City
Maasin City Borongan City
REGION IV-B 2 Catarman
Biliran
Ormoc City

Puerto Princesa City

Romblon 4 REGION X
REGION VI 4 Iligan City
Cagayan de Oro City (2)
Roxas City Kalibo, Aklan Ozamiz City
Iloilo City Bacolod City

8 2 CARAGA
REGION VII Surigao
Cebu City (2) Talisay City Butuan City
Mandaue City Siquijor
Lapu-Lapu City
Tagbilaran City
Dumaguete City 3 REGION XI
Tagum City
REGION IX 4 Montevista, Compostela Valley
Davao
Zamboanga City Dipolog City
Dapitan City Pagadian City 3 REGION XII
BARMM 3 General Santos City
Cotabato City
Maguindanao Marawi City Sultan Kudarat
Tawi-Tawi City

Source: OPAV

Sustained the Lingap at Gabay Para sa May Sakit (LinGap sa MaSa) 140

Through the LinGap sa MaSa program launched in 2017, we continued to provide

indigent patients with free medicines and assistance to avail of other medical
needs and treatment such as dialysis and chemotherapy. Implemented by the
DSWD, clients are assisted through help desks established in 29 identified

140 DSWD, Performance Report, CY 2020 1st Quarter.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

hospitals in five regions in the country. the PhilHealth paid approximately

As of March 2020, we have served PhP137 billion to cover membership
89,940 clients nationwide, utilizing benefits. This includes 2,446,293
PhP878.75 million or 87.88 percent of million claims amounting to PhP25.05
the program’s PhP1 billion fund (see billion covering the top ten medical
Figure 4.11). cases, such as pneumonia, dengue
fever, and acute gastroenteritis.

Figure 4.11 Number of Clients To ensure that our investments in

Served by LinGap sa MaSa the health care system are put to
(2017 to March 2020) good use, we aggressively addressed
alleged fraudulent activities that have
unfortunately tainted the NHIP. We
have likewise undertaken corrective
measures, including the imposition
LinGap sa
MaSa
89,940 of penalties on and revocation of
Clients served accreditation of erring facilities and
health care professionals, to ensure
that the provision of healthcare
NCR 26,670 services will not be compromised. We
Region III 14,042 have also instituted needed reforms in
Region VI 15,903 the PhilHealth and continue to update
Region VII 12,620 our systems to help guard against and
Region XI 20,705 prevent the occurrence of schemes
that seek to cheat the government and
Source: DSWD the Filipino people of money intended
for deserving patients.
Strengthened the National Health
Insurance Program (NHIP)141 As such, I appeal to you, my fellow
Filipinos, to maintain your trust
Under the Universal Health Care Act, in the integrity of our health care
all Filipinos are automatically enrolled system even as we remain vigilant in
into the NHIP. This assures our people of protecting the NHIP against abuse.
equitable access to affordable healthcare With our initiated reforms and
services and further protects them from continued budgetary support, we
the financial burden of costly medical hope to further strengthen the NHIP
treatment. As of 2019, over 108 million and continue to bring quality health
Filipinos were estimated to have been care to our people.
enrolled as members of the PhilHealth,
either as direct or indirect contributors,
whose premiums are subsidized by the
national government. In the same year,

141 PhilHealth, July 2019.

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The President, together with DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III, warmly welcomes the repatriated
OFWs from Saudi Arabia in June 2017.
Photo Credit: DOLE

Fostering Secure and Meaningful Livelihood

A secure and stable source of income market continued to record positive

is key towards improving our people’s gains as employment rates rose from
well-being. Thus, one of the primary 94.7 percent in 2018 to 94.9 percent in
objectives of my Administration is to 2019. This brought the total number
ensure that all Filipinos are provided of employed Filipinos to 42.4 million.
with adequate opportunities to earn Meanwhile, unemployment and
a meaningful livelihood, whether underemployment 143
rates dropped to
through formal employment or business its lowest in decades at 4.5 percent and
endeavors that would suit their current 13 percent, respectively, by the end of
circumstances. 2019 (see Figure 4.12). 144

Protected and Promoted the Welfare of Implemented Employment Facilitation

Filipino Workers Here and Abroad142 Programs

Improved Labor Force With about 2.3 million Filipinos still

unemployed in 2019, 145 we continued
Along with our steadily growing to link our job-seekers to employment
economy leading up to 2019, our labor opportunities that would best suit
142 DOLE, July 2020.
143 Employed persons who expressed the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job, to have an additional job, or to have a new job with longer
working hours are considered underemployed.
144 PSA, December 2019; DOF, July 2020.
145 PSA, December 20, 2019.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Figure 4.12 Underemployment and Unemployment rate

(2016 to 2019)
By the end of 2019, we have achieved the lowest recorded rates of unemployment at 4.5 percent
and underemployment at 13.0 percent. Unemployed persons numbered about 2.3 million, while
underemployed persons were estimated at 5.9 million persons
25.0

19.7 UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE

18.3
20.0
17.3 18.0 18.0
17.0 17.2
16.3 16.1 16.3 15.9
15.4
11.1 13.4 13.9 13.0
15.0

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
10.0
6.1 6.6 5.7 5.6
5.8 5.4 4.7 5.0 5.3 5.5 5.4 5.1 5.3 5.1 5.4 4.5
5.0

0.0
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

2016 2017 2018 2019

Source: DOF

their skills. Given that a substantial

portion 146 of the unemployed belonged Figure 4.13 Accomplishments under
to the youth sector, we implemented the Employment Facilitation Program
various programs to capacitate them (July 2016 to March 2020)
with relevant work experience and
Special Program for
enhance their access to employment Employment of Students (SPES)
opportunities (see Figure 4.13).
560,086 SPES beneficiaries
Protected Workers’ Rights and assisted that have completed
college and techvoc education
Maintained Industrial Peace
Government Intership Program
Recognizing that our labor force is the main
driver behind our country’s growth and GIP 95,065 youth assisted
development, we continued to promote
and protect the rights and welfare of Public Employment Service
our workers, especially the vulnerable (PES)
(see Figure 4.14). We also remained
8.86M qualified jobseekers
aggressive in our efforts towards ending referred for job placement
“end of contract” schemes and other
Source: DOLE
forms of illegal contracting by abusive
employers through strict enforcement of sector would be reminded of their shared
labor standards and institutionalization responsibility in improving the lives of
of policies that promote workers’ right our workers by providing stable career
to security of tenure. To this end, we opportunities and humane working
hope that everyone in the business conditions.
146 Youth (15-24 years old) unemployment rate in 2019 was at 44.8 percent (PSA, December 2019).

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Figure 4.14 Accomplishments under Programs on the Protection

of Worker’s Rights and Maintenance of Industrial Peace
(July 2016 to March 2020)

Workers 16,057 Labor and 2.27 M

Organization union Employment workers,
and Development members Education employers, and
Program trained Services students reached

Single Entry Speedy and Labor Inspection

Approach Efficient Delivery Program
of Labor Justice

Disposed
Settled 153,942 160,628 establishments
requests for assistance with 288,650 cases with
inspected with 612,582
216,566 workers assisted 1.19 M workers assisted workers regularized

Source: DOLE

Meanwhile, we implemented social

protection programs for our vulnerable Figure 4.15 Accomplishments under
workers to provide them immediate the Workers Protection and
relief against income loss due to risks Welfare Program
and contingencies arising out of crisis (July 2016 to March 2020)
or disasters (see Figure 4.15).
DOLE Integrated Livelihood and
Ensured Protection of OFWs Emergency Employment Program
(DILEEP): Kabuhayan
I know that being apart from loved ones
demands great emotional endurance 340,928 beneficiaries provided with
from our OFWs as they temporarily livelihood assistance
leave their families behind. Thus,
we ensured that Filipino workers DILEEP: Tupad
abroad shall be treated with dignity
as we provided various assistance for 1.73 M beneficiaries provided with
emergency employment
distressed workers and supported
advocacies that seek to protect migrants
from abuse, including trafficking in Employees Compensation Programs
persons (see Figure 4.16).

PhP7.42 billion in benefits awarded
to 1.25 M people with work-related
Pursued and reviewed labor agreements. disabilities
The failure of previous Administrations
to institute mechanisms and regulations Source: DOLE

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

to ensure the protection of OFWs has

allowed their abuse in the hands of Figure 4.16 Accomplishments on
foreign employers. Thus, we maintain Empowerment and
Protection of OFWs
our government’s presence at every
(July 2016 to March 2020)
stage of the migration cycle to protect
and promote the rights of our Filipino Documentation of OFWs
workers abroad. 8.96 M contracts processed

Assistance against Illegal

Recruitment / Trafficking-in-Person
Victims (AIR-TIP)
89,962 OFWs provided with assistance

Assistance to Nationals Fund (ATN)

311,489 OFs assisted

Legal Assistance Fund (LAF)

14,926 OFs assisted

On-Site Program and Services for OFWs

3.27 M OFWs served

Amnesty Program
17,482 OFWs repatriated

The President meets with OFWs. Sources: DOLE, DFA

Photo Credit: PCOO
the lives of Filipinos in the Middle East.
The landmark signing of the Bilateral Hence, in January this year, I directed
Labor Agreement with Kuwait in the military to evacuate thousands of
May 2018 is a clear message that Filipinos from Iran and Iraq. Relatedly, I
we are determined to put a stop to sent off two of our ships, the BRP Davao
human rights violations and further del Sur and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, to
loss of lives among our OFWs. In this save Filipino workers who were caught
connection, I am pleased to note that in the tensions in the Middle East.
the Philippine Government was able Since we started repatriating distressed
to work out a more specific agreement OFWs from the Middle East until the
with the Government of Kuwait, onset of the pandemic, we were able to
including a new harmonized standard bring home 88,414 kababayans.
employment contract for OFWs, which,
among others, bars employers from With the undeniable impact of the
committing inhumane acts. pandemic, more OFWs are expected
to lose their jobs and find their way
Evacuated OFWs in the Middle East. The home to the Philippines. As such, we
start of the year has brought us several are intensifying efforts to not only
challenges other than the current health repatriate our distressed Filipino
pandemic. The tensions between the USA workers but also provide livelihood
and Iran, for example, had endangered opportunities to help them earn a decent

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Distressed Worker from UAE now

Presidential Adviser on OFWs, Secretary owns Beauty Salon
Abdullah D. Mama-o (standing), with
Philippine Embassy Chargé d’Affaires and Agnes Luna, from Sasa, Davao City is one of
Consul General to Kuwait Mohd. Noordin the successful beneficiaries of the Balik Pinas!
Pendosina N. Lomondot (left), meets with the Balik Hanapbuhay! Program, which provides
Filipino community in Kuwait on January 18, immediate relief to returning OFWs.
2020 to discuss, among others, contingency
plans amid tensions in the Middle East. As an active member of the OWWA and
Photo Credit: DFA eligible for the program, Agnes received
livelihood assistance worth PhP20,000 in
July 2018. She considers OWWA a part of her
living. Recognizing the hard work and
success, as the scholarship and livelihood
indispensable contribution of OFWs to assistance she acquired helped her earn an
nation-building, it is our ultimate goal income without leaving her family.
to reward their sacrifices by providing
Source: DOLE
them with sustainable work and
livelihood opportunities at home. entrepreneurs strategies in starting-
up their business and capacitate them
Supported Entrepreneurship Towards through exchange programs and
Inclusive Growth training. With the implementation of the
law, we aim to provide further benefits
I have emphasized that when employment and incentives to startups and startup
is not an option, entrepreneurship shall enablers in the country through the
be advocated. However, recognizing programs of the DTI, DICT, and DOST.
that it takes skills and experience to run We also hope to create a competitive
and set up a business, we continued business startup community in the
to promote MSME development by country through these efforts.
introducing various support mechanisms
and providing the needed assistance for Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program
Filipino entrepreneurs in establishing and
growing their businesses. To capacitate our budding
entrepreneurs, we provided 8,275
RA no. 11337 or the Innovative Start-Up Act mentees with intensive mentoring and
coaching through the KMME. I am glad
I signed into law RA no. 11337 to to share that, in a survey among KMME
provide startup founders and aspiring graduates, 1,075 reported that their

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

sales increased by more than 10 percent opportunities in the countryside, we

after undergoing the Program. 147 look to develop the informal sector as
a means of livelihood for our people.
Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) Relatedly, to help informal sector
microenterprises integrate into the
We also released almost PhP6 billion mainstream economy, we continued
in P3 loans to small entrepreneurs and to encourage the formation of BMBEs
marginalized communities and assisted through our Negosyo Centers. In fact,
microenterprises raise capital at low from 2018 to 2019, there were 68,273
interest rates of 2 to 2.5 percent. This BMBEs registered with the DTI, which
provided our small business owners had access to various incentives. These
the necessary capital to start and grow include income tax and Minimum Wage
their businesses, while avoiding being Law exemption, and services including
victimized by opportunistic loan sharks. priority status in special credit windows;
technology transfer, production, and
Negosyo Centers management training; and marketing
assistance programs. It is my fervent
In our effort to further support the hope that these initiatives could lead
development of MSMEs, we established to more livelihood opportunities to
883 Negosyo Centers nationwide since help more Filipinos find meaningful
I assumed office, bringing the total livelihood opportunities.
number of Negosyo Centers to 1,130.
These provided MSMEs with services We recognize that not all Filipinos may
such as business name registration, be equipped to set up and manage their
business advisory, business information own business. Thus, for those who have
and advocacy, product development, the capital but are lacking in experience,
trade promotion, financing facilitation, franchising has become a viable option.
and investment promotion. According to the Philippine Franchising
Association (PFA), there are close to 900
franchises operating in the country. 148
Based on a survey conducted by the
DTI among Negosyo Center clients, a
Unfortunately, the characteristics that
total of 707 respondents representing
make franchising attractive are the same
80 percent of total respondents claimed
qualities that make it vulnerable to
that an increase in gross sales since they
abuse. It has come to my attention that
availed of services in Negosyo Centers.
there is no law nor government agency
that actively regulates franchises. Hence,
Barangay Micro Business Enterprises
I call on the DTI and other concerned
(BMBEs)
agencies to come up with measures
to ensure fair business practices and
As we encourage our fellow Filipinos
support small franchisees who are prone
to migrate from densely populated
to exploitation by big franchisors.
urban centers to explore potential
147 DTI, June 2020.
148 PFA, July 2020.

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While much has been achieved towards brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
providing livelihood opportunities for As such, we shall make the necessary
our countrymen in the first three and a adjustments moving forward to help
half years, existing jobs and businesses our workforce and businesses recover.
have been heavily affected by the blows

Farmer-beneficiaries receive their SURE Aid cash cards.

Photo Credit: DA

Making Financial Services

More Accessible to All Filipinos149

We continue to remove barriers that 27 percent in 2017, or an additional

exclude Filipinos from accessing five million. 151 This is a significant
financial services that would broaden stride toward our financial inclusion
their economic opportunities and objectives. The Philippines also
further improve their lives. By remained as one of the top countries
extending financial services for the promoting financial inclusion, ranking
unserved and underserved, specifically fifth worldwide and first in Asia,
the low-income, disadvantaged, and along with India, based on the results
marginalized sectors of our society, of the Global Microscope 2019 152 study
we are making it easier for our by the EIU.153 The study recognized the
countrymen to better plan for their country’s recent efforts in promoting
future under the National Strategy for digital financial inclusion and
Financial Inclusion (NSFI). 150 financial literacy, and other initiatives
such as the National Digital ID System
As a result, 29 percent of Filipinos and one-stop shop program for online
now have bank accounts, from just government services.

149 BSP, July 2020; BSP 2019 Financial Inclusion Initiatives.

150 Provides the platform for public-private coordination and cooperation, and harmonization of policies and programs for financial inclusion.
151 BSP, 2019 Financial Inclusion Survey.
152 A benchmarking index that assesses the enabling environment for financial access in 55 countries. The 2019 Microscope featured 11 new gender-focused
indicators that measured financial inclusion for both women and men.
153 BSP, Philippines maintains global leadership in financial inclusion, December 18, 2019.
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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Promoted Wider Reach of Financial forces personnel; 14 million Overseas

Services Filipinos (OFs); 1.9 million fisherfolk;
10 million 4Ps beneficiaries; and 1.4
We have been supporting activities million MSMEs.
that will ensure the Filipinos’ access
to financial services even in rural Expansion of the Financing Network
areas and amid the current health of Negosyo Centers
pandemic. These include relaxation
of identification requirements in To make financial products and
banks and other formal money service services more accessible to MSMEs,
providers, streamlining of licensing we expanded the financial network
requirements for facilities that of Negosyo Centers in the country by
would offer electronic payment and institutionalizing information sharing
financial services, and granting banks and connection between them and
permission to serve clients through microfinance institutions (MFI). This
third party agents. will enable the 1,130 Negosyo Centers 155
of the country to refer MSMEs to
Forged Strategic Partnerships appropriate financing windows and
Towards Inclusive Development the MFIs to have more credit insight
on the MSMEs being supported and
We also strengthened cooperation with served by Negosyo Centers.
industries, development institutions,
and other private sector organizations Sustained Financial Inclusion
in the pursuit of financial inclusion. Anchored on Innovation

Financial Education Development of the Framework for

Basic Deposit Accounts (BDA)
Through the Economic and Financial
Learning Programs of the Bangko We developed the BDA to meet the
Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), in needs of unbanked beneficiaries for
partnership with key stakeholders, 154 a low-cost, no-frills deposit account
we continue to promote greater opening as it removes prevalent barriers,
awareness and understanding of such as cost, and lack of money and
essential economic and financial documentary requirements. Through
information to help Filipinos make this policy, more Filipinos have been
well-informed financial choices. encouraged to open formal accounts,
These programs could ultimately which will provide not only a safe and
benefit around 29 million learners; convenient savings tool and gateway
1.8 million civil servants, including to digital payments, but also a means
800,000 teachers; 140,000 armed to access a gamut of financial services

154 Includes teachers and learners in the basic education system; OFs; unbanked/underbanked sectors, such as fisherfolk, 4Ps beneficiaries; and MSMEs;
civil servants; and armed forces personnel.
155 DTI, June 2020.

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ranging from credit to investments. make fund transfer and payment more
Meanwhile, a preferential zero percent convenient for Filipinos. Growing
reserve requirement is granted to banks in popularity, PESONet volume
to encourage them to offer BDA. increased from 300,000 in November
2017 to 2.6 million as of June 2020;
As of the fourth quarter of 2019, there while InstaPay volume rose from just
were 120 banks offering BDAs to over 1,740 in April 2018 to 18.3 million in
four million depositors, with total June 2020.
deposits of PhP3.5 million.156
Legal Measures and Issuances
Philippine Electronic Fund Transfer
System and Operations Network We also expanded the accessibility of
(PESONet) and InstaPay various financial products nationwide
for the low-income, MSME, and
We established the PESONet and agriculture sectors (see Table 4.18).
InstaPay as electronic payment services to

Table 4.18 Legal Measures Implemented to Facilitate Financial Inclusion

Measure Aim
RA no. 11057 or the Personal Facilitates the use of movable property157 as collateral
Property Security Act for both business and consumers credit
RA no. 11055 or the Philippine Provides all Filipinos the means to establish a verifiable
Identification System Act identity, which will enable them to use financial services
more efficiently
RA no. 11127 or the National Ensures access to safe and efficient payment systems to
Payment Systems Act encourage confidence in using secure, convenient, and
affordable payment services that are responsive to the
needs of Filipinos
BSP Circular no. 940 or the Allow banks to serve clients through cash agents (third
Cash Agent Regulation party facilities) that can accept and disburse cash on
behalf of the bank, perform Know-Your-Customer
procedures, and collect and forward application
documents for loan and account opening
As of the fourth quarter of 2019, there were over 17,000
cash agents nationwide158
Source: BSP

Expanded Credit Opportunities

In line with my directive to eliminate usurious lending practices that enslave

Filipino lendees, while expanding opportunities for those who would like to start
156 BSP, Q4 2019 Financial Inclusion Dashboard and List of Banks Offering BDAs.
157 Includes bank accounts, accounts receivables and secured sales contracts, inventory and raw goods, intellectual property rights, industrial and agricultural
equipment, durable consumer goods, agricultural products, and vehicles.
158 Banks with cash agent operations increased from 11 banks in 2019 to 13 banks as of April 2020.

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their business, we continue to make other barriers. Since the program

available to everyone various credit started in 2008, 55 CSF cooperatives in
facilities, as follows: 34 provinces and 21 cities have been
established nationwide. A total of
P3159 PhP5.7 billion worth of loans was also
released to 17,424 MSME-beneficiaries
Designed to help MSMEs become covered by the CSF. Meanwhile, there
more viable, P3 aims to provide are six CSF cooperatives 161 registered
an alternative and affordable source with the Cooperative Development
of capital at not more than 2.5 percent Authority as of June 2020.
monthly all-in interest rate and service
charges. As of June 2020, PhP5.42 billion Production Loan Easy Access
worth of loans were released to 150,320 (PLEA) 162
beneficiaries. The P3 has also partnered
with 434 microfinance institutions to Designed to address the financial
make the program more accessible needs of marginalized small farmers
nationwide. and fisherfolk (MSFF), PLEA
provides non-collateralized loans
Credit Surety Fund (CSF) 160 for agri-fishery production through
cooperative banks, rural banks,
The CSF increases the credit cooperatives, and non-government
worthiness of borrowers that organizations as lending conduits (see
would have difficulty accessing Figure 4.17). From 2017 to May 2020,
credit facilities due to insufficient PhP2.2 billion in loans were granted
collateral, limited credit histories, and to 62,476 MSFF borrowers.
inadequate financial records, among

Figure 4.17 PLEA Program Performance

(as of May 2020)

No. of MSFF Borrowers PhP142 M

per Commodity Fisheries Production
62,476
Total No. of
43,966 MSFF Borrowers
PhP443 M PhP1.6 B
12,792 Livestock
Production Crop

5,313
Production
PhP2.22 B
Total Amount of Loans
Granted to MSFF
PhP15 M
405 Poultry Production
Borrowers

Source: DA-ACPC

159 DTI, June 2020.

160 BSP, July 2020.
161 Located in Tacloban, Baguio, Santiago, and Tacurong Cities; and Cagayan and Benguet provinces.
162 ACPC, July 2020.

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Working Capital Loan Easy Access

Figure 4.18 CLEA Program (CLEA) 163
Performance
(as of May 2020) Since its launch in 2018 to May 2020,
we provided PhP47.9 million loan
Region I
2 Borrower Organizations assistance to 2,652 MSFF beneficiaries
Region II PhP7.0
Million
PhP5.0
Million
nationwide to finance their working
capital requirements for trading,
4 Borrower Organizations

Region IV-B PhP5.0

4 Borrower Organizations Million marketing, and processing of agri-
Region X PhP5.0
PhP20.0 fishery products (see Figure 4.18).
1 Borrower Organization Million
Million
Region XI
1 Borrower Organization
PhP5.0
Million
SURE 164
Region XII
To support the immediate
1 Borrower Organization
PhP903,000
BARMM
1 Borrower Organization rehabilitation of agricultural and
Partner Lending Conduits
livelihood activities of MSFFs affected
(PLCs)
Type 1 PLCs
PhP47.9 M by natural calamities and other crises,
Total Amount of Loans
we also provided PhP252.6 billion in
Those with credit Granted to MSFF Borrowers
track record with loans to 21,211 MSFF borrowers from
LBP and other
government 2,652 2017 to May 2020.
financial Total No. of MSFF Beneficiaries
institutions (GFI).

Source: DA-ACPC

Way Forward: Empowering the People

Towards a Better Normal
My administration has taken great strides from merely responding to the people’s
basic needs to empowering and enabling them to provide for themselves. We have
worked hard to provide affordable food, potable water, stable electricity, and decent
shelter to all Filipinos; and invested in social protection programs, quality education,
and health care to enable them to contribute as productive members of society. We
have secured the necessary funding for programs aimed at supporting our people’s
continued development. Your government is working relentlessly to deliver the
right interventions and conditions to pave the way towards a comfortable life for
all Filipinos.

In this connection, I remain true to my pledge to provide for our people’s needs
and help lift our people out of poverty. Our existing social protection programs,
especially the 4Ps, have substantially helped in reducing poverty and promoting
social equity. Unfortunately, the unexpected arrival of one of the worst health
pandemics in the past century has taken us back a few steps. However, we will not

163 ACPC, July 2020.

164 Ibid.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

be deterred but rather push forward to expand and continually fine-tune our social
safety nets to safeguard the poor and the vulnerable, making them more responsive
to future shocks. This includes the provision of basic social services to the poor
and the new poor. We will also scale up our existing programs by leveraging new
technologies and converging all the databases of the poor and the vulnerable.

In terms of food security, we will be adopting supportive policies and sustaining

our investments to enhance food production, post-production, and procurement.
We shall also modernize the agricultural sector in order to synergize linkages of
the whole value chain from pre-production, production, processing, marketing,
and consumption. This will maximize productivity and add value to benefit all the
players in the system.

On water security, we will fast-track the completion of major water infrastructure

projects to ensure access to safe and affordable water supply to 95 percent of
households by 2022. Meanwhile, we shall further intensify efforts to increase the
country’s power generating capacity through more energy projects to achieve 100
percent electrification of all unelectrified households by 2022.

As part of our people’s development, we will also continue to ensure access to

quality education and improve the delivery of related services at all academic
levels, through alternative modes of learning suitable to the current setting. This
pandemic will not be a hindrance for our Filipino students to achieve their dream
of receiving quality education and earning a diploma. We will make sure of this.

We will work hard to regain lost ground in our path towards economic development
and help support the recovery of businesses to promote resurgence in livelihood
opportunities for our people, especially our displaced OFWs. With the pandemic
substantially contributing to loss of jobs, the government will intensify its efforts to
help our people put up and sustain their own businesses. We will ensure that our
MSMEs will be provided with an enabling environment characterized by responsive
support services, access to adequate financing, and fair business practices, to include
franchise and rental regulations, among others.

Reminded of the great need to have an efficient healthcare system, we will also
strive to further strengthen our delivery of health services, in coordination with
local governments and private enterprises nationwide. This is to help ensure that
our people become healthier and stronger as we collectively aim to gain a foothold
towards recovery.

Together, we shall overcome the challenges as we tread the path towards a

comfortable life for our people.

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“Let us all remain united in

attaining sustainable peace
and development that will
last beyond this lifetime.
With [the local government
units’] help, I am confident
that we can secure these
gains for the younger
generations to enjoy.”

- The President’s speech during

the 2018 Presidential Award for
Child-Friendly Municipalities
and Cities at the Malacañan
Palace on November 28, 2019

Photo Credit: PCOO

Safeguarding the
Chapter
Dividends of Peace
5 and Security
As a Mindanaoan, it is my fondest dream to one day
achieve just and inclusive peace in our country. In
the last four years, we have achieved great strides
towards securing an inclusive and sustainable
peace for the people in Mindanao. However, lawless
elements continue to threaten our gains.

I will remain relentless in the war against illegal

drugs, criminality, and terrorism. After all, our
people can only enjoy the fruits of development if
they feel safe. We owe it to the next generation to
persevere in our collective aspiration so they can
live in secure and progressive communities.

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Winning the Fight against Insurgency

and Terrorism

For decades, I have seen how lawless lines of effort: a) local government
elements, including communist armed empowerment; b) international
groups, thwart development initiatives engagement; c) legal cooperation;
in the countryside. The inequitable and d) strategic communication; e) basic
unsustainable economic development services; f) livelihood and poverty
of the past has turned rural areas alleviation; g) infrastructure and
into ripe recruitment grounds for resource management; h) peace,
terrorist groups. Insurgency feeds law enforcement, and development
off the hungry and the hopeless. support; i) situational awareness and
As our brothers and sisters become knowledge management; j) localized
excluded from economic, social, and peace engagement; k) Enhanced
public services, they become prey Comprehensive Local Integration
to the manipulation of communist Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty
armed groups. This creates a vicious Program; and l) sectoral unification,
cycle of poverty and violence. I have capacity-building, and empowerment.
seen too many families broken, lives
lost, and children whose futures had Since the NTF-ELCAC’s activation,
become uncertain. We cannot afford to my Cabinet Secretaries have tirelessly
waste this opportunity to finally end worked with LGUs, communities,
insurgency and terrorism. Winning and non-government organizations,
this battle would require more than including religious groups, to
military solutions alone, but a whole-
of-nation approach.

Mobilizing the Nation Towards Peace

and Development 165

In 2018, I signed EO no. 70, creating

the National Task Force to End Local
Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-
ELCAC), which institutionalized and
The President presides over the Joint NTF-
facilitated convergence among our ELCAC and AFP-PNP Command Conference
development, good governance, and in Malacañan Palace on November 18, 2019.
Also in attendance are (from left to right):
peace and security interventions. DILG Secretary Año, National Security
This multi-pronged approach aims to Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr., DA
Secretary Dar, DepEd Secretary Briones,
address the root cause of insurgency Cabinet Secretary Karlo A.B. Nograles, DTI
and criminality through the 12 Secretary Lopez, and DENR Secretary Roy A.
Cimatu.
Photo Credit: PCOO
165 NTF-ELCAC and NSC, July 7, 2020.

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Figure 5.1 E-CLIP Accomplishments

as of June 30, 2020

4,325
former rebels provided by the
DILG with financial benefits worth
PhP314.46 billion

2,105
former rebels covered under the
DOLE’s TUPAD Workers Program
Enlistment and Integrated
Livelihood Program

12
halfway houses constructed
The President greets former rebels
before distributing their benefits during
a ceremony at the San Isidro Central 1,592
School in Leyte on January 23, 2020. beneficiaries of the Cooperative
Photo Credit: PCOO Development Authority’s
technical assistance or training
for cooperative development,
create transparent and inclusive management, and operations
communities that would undertake
activities toward sustainable peace. 3,742
graduates of various TESDA skills
training programs
Fostered localized peace settlements and
conflict resolution. In 2018, we started
the implementation of the E-CLIP. 460
This program provides various former rebels covered under the
DTI’s livelihood trainings and
socioeconomic assistance to former seminars
members of the Communist Party of
the Philippines (CPP) - New People’s
Army (NPA) - National Democratic
53
former rebels given housing units
Front (NDF) to help them transform
their lives to become productive
citizens and live a peaceful life with 10,079*
their family and community. benefitted from the DSWD’s 4Ps-
Modified Conditional Cash Transfer,
Sustainable Livelihood Program,
As of June 30, 2020, we facilitated the Supplementary Feeding Program,
enrollment of 4,325 former rebels to and Social Pension, among others
the E-CLIP. Some of the assistance we
extended to the beneficiaries under *includes individuals from affected communities
the E-CLIP include the following: Source: Task Force Balik-Loob
(see Figure 5.1)

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With E-CLIP’s progress, we began to Intensifying Internal Security

encourage rebels from other groups Operations 167
to lay down their arms and become
productive and law-abiding members The AFP has sustained its internal
of society. In March 2020, I ordered the security operations, which have
expansion of our reintegration efforts weakened the strength of the country’s
to cover not just former rebels but also notorious armed groups.
former violent extremists. 166
Following are the notable
accomplishments in 2019:

• Clearing of 13 out of 39 guerilla

fronts, which is the highest number
of cleared guerilla fronts in the past
decade;

• Declaration of the CTG as persona

non grata by 48 provinces, 609
cities and municipalities, 5,751
barangays, and 164 organizations,
Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael signifying the erosion of influence
Lloyd Dino meets with AFP officers in Region
VII to discuss the status of security in the region.
of the CPP-NPA-NDF among the
Photo Credit: OPAV local populace; and

• Rescue of 1,777 civilian hostages

from the Maute Group, and
neutralization of about 920 Daulah
Islamiyah (DI) members that
included Abu Sayyaf Group leader
Isnilon Hapilon and other Maute
Group key personalities.

Initiating Sustainable Development

at the Grassroots 168

PCOO Secretary and concurrent CORDS for Barangay Development Package. At the
Region X Martin M. Andanar and DSWD core of our whole-of-nation approach
Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista launch is empowering LGUs to lead the
Convergence Areas for Peace and Development
Program on June 26, 2019 to synchronize peace
implementation of conflict resolution
and development efforts in Northern Mindanao. and peacebuilding programs at the
Photo Credit: PCOO barangay level nationwide. We have
put in place mechanisms for LGUs
166 Administrative Order no. 25, s. 2020, which amended Administrative Order no. 10, s. 2018, entitled, “Centralizing all
Government Efforts for the Reintegration of Former Rebels and creating for the Purpose an Inter-Agency Task Force.”
167 DND, July 17, 2020.
168 NSC, July 15, 2020; OPAPP, July 18, 2020.

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to identify issues and necessary From only 14,713 individuals in 2016,

government interventions, including the number increased by 64.43 percent,
development projects, in over 700 with 24,192 enrollees in 2019.
barangays cleared from the threat
of the CTG. The proposed Barangay We also continue to support IPs
Development Package shall serve through the National Commission
as an economic stimulus to fund on Indigenous Peoples’ educational
development projects, transforming assistance program, with 561 grantees
conflict-affected barangays into peace as of February 2020.
and progressive communities.

Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan

Program. We continued to promote
peace and facilitate socioeconomic
development especially in conflict-
affected and -vulnerable areas,
particularly in the Cordilleras; Moro
National Liberation Front areas
needing socioeconomic assistance and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA)
development; and areas affected and/ Chairman Emmanuel F. Piñol, Taraka Mayor
or vulnerable to conflict with the CTG. Nashiba Sumagayan, and the Development
Bank of the Philippines Representative Ms.
Angelita Aguhob sign a PhP128-million
Since 2016, we have enrolled more agreement aimed at improving irrigation
former combatants to PhilHealth. capacity in Taraka, Lanao del Sur.
Photo Credit: MinDA

Seizing the Momentum of Peace in Mindanao

Development in Mindanao will allowed the National Government to
hinge upon our success in securing support the Bangsamoro Transition
conflict-affected and -vulnerable Authority (BTA) in establishing a
communities. In April 2019, I signed government and institutions that would
EO no. 79,169 which implements the sustain peace in the area. Through
Annex on Normalization under the these efforts, our brothers and sisters
Comprehensive Agreement on the in the Bangsamoro region have regained
Bangsamoro (CAB). This has paved control of their destiny. I trust that their
the way for the institutionalization of leaders will usher them to progress. The
a multi-faceted peace and development Philippine Government will continue to
strategy in the Bangsamoro. It also support the BTA until a just and inclusive
created the Inter-Cabinet Cluster peace in the Bangsamoro is reached.
Mechanism on Normalization, which As a testament to my commitment to

169 Refers to Implementing the Annex on Normalization under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, signed April 24, 2019.

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promote lasting peace in Mindanao, we and coordination between and among

supported the normalization process the agencies of the BARMM and the
through the following: National Government. The IGRB
ensures that all policies and programs
Established a Vital Consultation of the BARMM are service-oriented,
Mechanism between Bangsamoro people-centric, and transformative
Autonomous Region in Muslim in order to bring tangible benefits to
Mindanao (BARMM) and the and real change in the lives of the
National Government 170
Bangsamoro people.

Upon the passage and ratification Training of Joint Peace and Security
of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, Teams (JPST)171
we realized the need for clear and
open communication channels that The JPST is an initiative that aims to
would foster important development form partnerships in peace. It involves
discussions between the National the joint training of the AFP, PNP, and
Government and the BARMM. MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed
Thus, in October 2019, I approved Forces (BIAF) to equip them with
the establishment of the National knowledge, skills, and attitude to better
Government – Bangsamoro Government protect the gains of the peace process.
Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB)
with a mandate to sustain cooperation In August and October 2019, we

Members of the IGRB from the National Government, represented by DOF Secretary Carlos
G. Dominguez III and the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Carlito
G. Galvez, Jr., and their counterparts from the Bangsamoro government convene IGRB’s first
consultative meeting on December 16, 2019 in Davao City.
Photo Credit: OPAPP

170 OPAPP, July 18, 2020.

171 OPAPP, July 18, 2020.

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children, housing and livelihood

projects, training, and capacity building.

I am grateful for the contributions of

the Government of Malaysia as Third-
Party Facilitator in the Peace Process
and the tireless support of the sixteen-
strong International Monitoring Team,
whose timely interventions have been
The joint training of AFP, PNP, and MILF- instrumental in fortifying our peace
BIAF troops reflects the trust, confidence, negotiations.
and camaraderie built among members of
the group.
Photo Credit: OPAPP Our decades-long yearning for peace
in Mindanao is not just a national
aspiration, but one that is shared among
conducted two batches of JPST training, our friends and partners in the regional
involving 173 AFP and PNP personnel and global community. The international
and 372 MILF-BIAF in Cotabato and support that we have received to advance
Maguindanao provinces. the Mindanao peace process is a testament
to the strength of partnerships which we
Decommissioning of the Moro Islamic have fostered through our sustained
Liberation Front (MILF) 172 engagements for peace and security.

Grounded on the CAB principle of

inclusivity, we continue to give former
MILF combatants and non-combatants
an opportunity to reintegrate into
society and enjoy fruitful and
productive civilian lives.

We completed the second phase of the

decommissioning of the MILF-BIAF
combatants and weapons on March
11, 2020. A total of 12,000 former MILF
combatants and 2,100 weapons were
The President leads the distribution of
decommissioned. socioeconomic assistance to the former MILF
combatants during their decommissioning
at the Old Provincial Capitol Compound
Each of the decommissioned combatants in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on
received from the Philippine Government September 7, 2019. Assisting the President
is BARMM Interim Chief Minister Ahod B.
a socioeconomic package worth PhP1 Ebrahim.
million. This includes PhP100,000 cash, Photo Credit: PCOO
health benefits, scholarships for their

172 OPAPP, July 18, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Towards Marawi’s Recovery and Rehabilitation

I have not forgotten our Maranao brothers and sisters in Marawi. While the
health emergency disrupted our ongoing rehabilitation, we are now moving
full speed towards the recovery and rehabilitation of Marawi City.

Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) Chairman and DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario leads
the groundbreaking on the construction of Marawi City Integrated School (left) and the symbolic
restoration of power supply inside the war-torn Islamic City’s most affected area (right) on July 15-16,
2020.
Photo Credit: DHSUD

National Commission on Muslim Filipinos TESDA Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña and authorities
(NCMF) Chair Saidamen Balt Pangarungan from the Cooperative Development Authority
listens to the issues of Muslim Filipinos during sign an agreement on October 22, 2019 to
the consultation with Marawi residents on March strengthen the capacity of cooperative members,
18, 2019 in Marawi City. especially those belonging to indigenous peoples
Photo Credit: NCMF and the internally displaced persons of Marawi.
Photo Credit: TESDA

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Upholding Public Safety

I have always prayed for peace not only percent in 2016 to 80.25 percent in 2019
in Mindanao but for the whole country. (see figure 5.2).
This is why since the beginning of my
Administration, I have worked hard to Carrying on the Battle Against Illegal
ensure that our communities, families, Drugs
and children are safe from the evils of
criminality and illegal drugs. For the past four years, our campaign
against illegal drugs has been
Combatting Criminality173 relentless. I remain firm in my
commitment to significantly reduce, if
My commitment to fight crime in the not put a stop to, the scourge of illegal
country has never waned. The efforts of drugs within my term. I will not let it
our law enforcement agencies continue destroy the lives of my fellow Filipinos,
to pay off, as shown by significant especially the youth.
achievements in anti-crime operations.
Sustained anti-illegal drug operations. 175
We reduced index crime incidents174 From July 2016 to June 2020,
by more than half (52.50 percent) from our law enforcement agencies
139,111 in 2016 to 66,074 in 2019. In conducted 170,449 anti-illegal drug
addition, the PNP’s efficiency in solving operations, resulting in significant
crimes has notably improved from 57.03 accomplishments (see figure 5.3).

Figure 5.2 Anti-Criminality Accomplishments (2016-2019)

Index Crimes Total Crime Volume Crime Solution Efficiency (%)
52.50% 16.98% 23.22
decrease from 2016 to 2019 decrease from 2016 to 2019 percentage points increase
from 2016 to 2019
584,883
139,111 520,641
107,254 490,393 80.25
81,263 66,074 485,586 61.11 74.42
57.03

2016 2017 2018 2019 2016 2017 2018 2019 2016 2017 2018 2019

Source: PNP

173 DILG, July 16, 2020.

174 The eight index crimes are theft, robbery, carnapping of motorcycles, carnapping of motor vehicles, murder, homicide, rape,
and physical injury. 2016 to 2018 figures were adjusted in view of the exclusion of cattle rustling under index crimes.
175 PDEA, July 17, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

interdiction operation in Gandara,

Figure 5.3 Results of
Samar. Six drug personalities were
Anti-illegal Drug Operations arrested.
(July 2016 to June 2020)
• 371 kg of shabu worth PhP2.52
billion were seized during a buy-
247,798 bust operation in Makati City on
arrested illegal drug November 26, 2019. A Chinese
personalities
national was arrested.

3,211 • On February 3, 2020, authorities

rescued minors seized 3.94 kg of shabu worth
PhP26.78 million during an
558 interdiction operation through
dismantled illegal drug random K9 sweeping and parcel
dens profiling in NAIA Terminal 3, Pasay
City. A Thai national was arrested.
PhP52.22 • 371.09 kg of shabu worth PhP2.52
billion billion were seized from two
worth of illegal drugs arrested drug suspects in General
seized Trias City, Cavite on June 11, 2020.

18,893 Improved Citizen Participation in the

drug-cleared barangays Fight Against Illegal Drugs. For the
out of 42,045 past four years, my Administration
has worked towards fostering a
partnership between the government
Source: PDEA
and its people in the fight against
illegal drugs. It gives me hope when
Conducted high-impact operations. illegal drug activities are thwarted due
The Philippine Drug Enforcement to reports that came from the people
Agency (PDEA) and other law themselves. Our local authorities have
enforcement agencies conducted seized upon this partnership to help
high-impact operations and arrested eradicate our country’s drug problem.
high-value targets to significantly
reduce the supply of illegal drugs • A barangay councilor from Bais
in the country. The following are City, Negros Oriental was arrested
some of their noteworthy drug busts: on June 7, 2020 due to his neighbor ’s
tip to the authorities. Recovered
• On October 17, 2019, authorities from the suspect were two grams
seized 87.8 kilograms (kg) of shabu of shabu worth PhP13,600 and a .45
worth PhP597 million during a land caliber pistol.

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• On June 2, 2020, authorities of illegal drug surrenderers. From

recovered 50 grams of shabu worth July 2016 to June 2020, there were
PhP340,000 during a buy-bust 559,190 graduates of the PNP RWP.
operation in Cebu City. The suspect
was under surveillance for about • Community-based Drug Rehabilitation
a week after he was reported by a Program (CBDRP). A total of 178,353
concerned citizen. drug surrenderers nationwide have
completed the CBDRP interventions
Sustained Demand and Harm Reduction consisting of psychosocial support,
Efforts. 176 Fully aware that the war on recovery skills, psychoeducation,
drugs cannot be won by addressing relapse prevention skills, life
only the supply of drugs, we undertook skills, family intervention, and
the following efforts to reduce the counseling, among others. The
demand for illegal drugs: DILG also developed an Anti-
Drug Abuse Council reporting
• Treatment and Rehabilitation. From system, which will be linked
January 2018 to January 2020, the to the information system of
DOH Treatment and Rehabilitation the Dangerous Drugs Board, to
Centers provided 7,625 inpatient efficiently monitor the progress of
services and 10,276 outpatient the drug surrenderers based on the
services, while 7,175 patients interventions provided to them.
had completed the primary
care program of the centers. • Balay Silangan. The PDEA’s Balay
Silangan Reformation Program
• PNP Recovery and Wellness Program aims to reform drug offenders and
(RWP). In addition to their reintegrate them back to society.
steadfast efforts in curtailing As of June 30, 2020, 140 Balay
illegal drug supply, the PNP is Silangan Reformation Centers
also implementing a RWP. It aims nationwide catered to 2,100 clients.
to provide a holistic approach, Of these, 1,449 have graduated
through medical and psychosocial while 91 have been employed.
interventions, towards the recovery

176 DOH, July 17, 2020; PNP, July 17, 2020; DILG, July 15, 2020; PDEA, July 17, 2020.

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Strengthening the Military and the Police

The President salutes one of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista
Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on December 14, 2019.
Photo Credit: PCOO

Time and again, the military and the selfless duty of the military, police,
police have proven their commitment and other law enforcement agencies,
to their sworn duty to preserve the my Administration has implemented
country’s territorial integrity and programs to boost their morale and
safety from various threats, whether strengthen their capability so they
these be from insurgency and terrorism, would be fully equipped to perform
crime, illegal drugs, or calamities. their duties.
Throughout the pandemic, we have
also relied on the military and the Uplifting the Morale of our Troops 177
police for our COVID-19 management
and response, serving at the frontlines We recognize the sacrifices of the
along with our medical and health military and the police by ensuring
professionals. In recognition of the that their needs are well taken care of.

177 PMS, July 17, 2020.

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Comprehensive Social Benefits Program

(CSBP). We have been implementing
the CSBP since 2017 to provide
assistance to and honor our AFP and
PNP battle casualties. Benefits include
financial, employment and livelihood,
education, housing, and healthcare
assistance (see Table 5.1).

Payment of Pension Differentials. Our

appreciation to the armed forces is
not limited to those who are in active
service. We also honor the sacrifices
of our retired military and uniformed Hyperbaric Chamber installed at the Camp
Navarro General Hospital
personnel (MUP). In October 2019,
Photo Credit: Tourism Infrastructure and
the DBM released PhP22.3 billion to Enterprise Zone Authority
the DND, DILG, National Mapping
and Resource Information Authority
(NAMRIA), and Philippine Coast
Guard (PCG) to cover the pension Provision of Hazard Duty Pay to Military
differentials of retired MUP from June Personnel assigned in Sulu. I recognize
to December 2019. the magnitude of the danger our troops
face in Sulu. Thus, we provided them
Table 5.1 CSBP Assistance to AFP with hazard duty pay equivalent to 50
and PNP Beneficiaries percent of their base pay.
(as of June 2020)
Type of AFP PNP Upgrading of Military and Police
Assistance Beneficiaries Beneficiaries Hospitals. Part of my commitment to
Special the troops is the upgrading of military
Financial 3,624 702 and police hospitals to ensure that
Assistance
they, especially our battle casualties,
Employment
320 125 would have access to quality
and Livelihood treatment. As of June 2020, we have
provided a hyperbaric chamber for
Education 419 49
Camp Navarro General Hospital and a
magnetic resonance imaging machine
Housing 425 163 for the AFP Medical Center.

Healthcare 351 152 Meanwhile, we are implementing

the construction of new buildings
Source: PMS

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for the AFP Medical Center and PNP Second Horizon of the RAFPMP.
Medical Plaza, and the repair of the This program aims to provide the
AFP Medical Center and PSG Station equipment necessary for the AFP
Hospital buildings. to perform its mandates on internal
security, humanitarian assistance
Upgrading the Capability of our and disaster response, and territorial
Forces 178 defense, especially of our maritime
domain.
To lessen the risks to our law enforcers
and troops and further enhance A notable achievement under the
their efficiency and effectiveness in AFP Modernization Program is
protecting the country, I have ensured the delivery of the BRP Jose Rizal,
the funding for their modernization classified as our first missile-capable
and capability enhancement programs. warship, on May 23, 2020. The
commissioning of BRP Jose Rizal on
Equipping the Police. Through the July 10, 2020 and the upcoming similar
Capability Enhancement Program, we class warship slated for delivery next
have been procuring more equipment year, the BRP Antonio Luna, signal
to support the PNP’s operations. the start of more advanced naval and
As of June 30, 2020, we have issued maritime operations.
various equipment such as vehicles,
communication equipment, and
firearms to police offices nationwide.
Other items, such as ballistic eyewear
and body worn cameras, are in various
stages of procurement.

Sustaining Efforts to Modernize the
Military. Over the past four years, we
ensured that the capabilities of the
AFP are responsive to the growing
demands for a stronger military
force. We continue to pursue the
remaining projects under the Horizon BRP Jose Rizal arrives at Alava
One of the Revised Armed Forces Wharf, Subic Bay, Zambales on May
23, 2020.
of the Philippines Modernization Photo Credit: PN
Program (RAFPMP). In 2018, we
started the implementation of the

178 PNP, July 17, 2020; DND, July 17, 2020.

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Fostering International Partnerships for Peace,

Security, and Development

The President prepares to deliver his speech during the 16th Annual Meeting of the Valdai Discussion
Club in Sochi, Russia on October 3, 2019. (From L to R: His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, Russian
President Vladimir Putin, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and a moderator from the Russian
Academy of Sciences.
Photo Credit: PCOO

For years, we have let our colonized fostered in the past few years have
history define the entirety of our erected new bridges that connected the
foreign policy. This has caused a Philippines to the rest of the world. At
cycle of dependence and allowed the same time, we remain committed
inequality in our relationship with to our existing partnerships and
other countries. Thus, as the leader of faithful to our agreements with them.
this nation, I made a commitment to
rectify these errors and pursue a truly Reinforcing ASEAN Community and
independent foreign policy that best Regional Security 179
represents the interest and values of
the Filipino people. Enhanced security relations with
Southeast Asian neighbors. Together
The Philippines is a friend to all and with our closest neighbors, we
enemy to none. The partnerships we responded to transnational security

179 DND, July 17, 2020; DFA, April 9, 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

challenges in the Sulu-Sulawesi seas

through the Indonesia-Malaysia-
Philippines Trilateral Cooperative
Arrangement on Immediate Measures
to Address Security Issues in the
Maritime Areas of Common Concern,
which was signed on July 14, 2016.
We conducted trilateral air patrols,
five of which were led by the AFP in
2019, and trilateral port visits, one
of which was hosted by the AFP in
Zamboanga City. These trilateral
patrols, combined with heightened
efforts in information sharing, have
contributed to safer waters in the tri- The President participates in the Special
ASEAN Summit on COVID-19 held via
border maritime areas. As a result, teleconference at the Malago Clubhouse on
the kidnapping activities of the April 4, 2020.
Photo Credit: PCOO
ASG have significantly decreased
from 16 in 2016 to two in 2019.

Promoted stability in the South China

Sea (SCS). We were actively involved, united in its strong determination and
as the ASEAN-China coordinator, unwavering commitment to act jointly
in developing the draft framework and decisively to protect its peoples
for the SCS Code of Conduct (COC), amidst the global pandemic.
which was adopted during our
ASEAN Chairmanship in 2017. The On April 14, 2020, I represented
draft framework serves as basis for the the Filipino Nation in the Special
negotiations between China and the ASEAN Summit on COVID-19.
ASEAN Member States on the actual During the meeting, we advocated
COC. In 2019, we facilitated several the incorporation of the following
meetings towards the completion of in the ASEAN Framework: (1)
the first reading of the single draft ASEAN cooperation to mitigate the
negotiating text. socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19,
(2) updating and improving existing
Participated Actively in Fighting ASEAN mechanisms for Infectious
COVID-19 as one ASEAN. True to Disease Outbreaks, and (3) active
the motto of ASEAN: “One Vision, engagement with ASEAN Dialogue
One Identity, One Community”, the Partners on vaccine research and
ASEAN Member States remained development.

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Southeast Asia (SEA) Games: A Source of National Pride

The Philippines was very honored to

host the 30th SEA Games conducted
from November 30 to December 11,
2019.

The sports competitions were

conducted simultaneously in various
venues such as the New Clark City
Sports Hub; Rizal Memorial Sports
Complex; and several locations
in Cavite, Laguna, Zambales, and
Batangas.

The activity served as an opportunity

for thousands of athletes from
SEA countries to demonstrate
their talents, professionalism, and
camaraderie. Indeed, our athletes
are a testimony that Filipinos can
compete in the international arena.

Our hosting of the SEA Games has

shown to the world that our country
is ready and capable to cater and
manage international events. The feat
was achieved through the collective
effort of different agencies, and the
enthusiastic support of the Filipino
people, marking the event a historic
success.

Photo Credit: PCOO, PIA, and 2019 SEA

Games website

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Fostering Closer Ties with East Asian despite initial agreement of leasing
Neighbors 180 the aircrafts. Japan also donated
thousands of spare parts and
Levelled-up Cooperation with Japan. maintenance equipment for the UH-1
Under my term, Philippine-Japan Huey helicopters of the Philippine
relations entered a more strategic Air Force (PAF) in 2019, making
phase of cooperation. The numerous the Philippines the first ASEAN
agreements we signed since 2017 member-state to receive excess
provide the framework of cooperation Japanese defense equipment. The first
both in defense and infrastructure. Philippines-Japan Defense Industry
Forum, which promoted defense
Our warm friendship with Japan also equipment cooperation between both
resulted in generous donations that countries, was held in Taguig City on
further strengthened our defense October 2, 2019.
capabilities. In 2018, five Beechcraft
King Air TC-90 aircraft were given for Enhanced Defense Cooperation with
free by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense South Korea. South Korea has always
Force to the Philippine Navy (PN) been a reliable partner in modernizing
the AFP. In 2018, we signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
for Cooperation on the Expansion
of Renewable Energy Deployment
between the DND and the Republic
of Korea Ministry of Trade, Industry,
and Energy. This aims to strengthen
the DND’s renewable energy supply
to maintain its operational readiness,
particularly in times of emergency.
In July 2019, we received a unit of
Pohang Class Corvette Chungju,
which we named BRP Conrado Yap.
The vessel is expected to enhance the
The President and Japan Prime Minister PN’s capabilities in defending our seas
Shinzo Abe shake hands prior to the start
of their bilateral meeting in Nonthaburi, and responding to different maritime
Thailand. Standing behind President security threats. Given our robust
Duterte are members of the Philippine
delegation. defense cooperation with South Korea,
Photo Credit: PCOO we signed another MOU in November
2019 to fast-track our procurement of
defense equipment.

180 DND, July 17, 2020.

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Revitalized Defense Cooperation with China. In 2018, Russia also donated the
We have taken steps to develop existing following to the AFP: 20 units of
defense relations with China, particularly general utility trucks; 5,000 units of
in the field of logistics and defense by 7.62-millimeter (mm) AK assault rifles
signing formal agreements in 2017. with 30-rounds of magazines; 1,000,000
Military aid gratis from China were units of 7.62-mm ammunition; and 5,000
transferred to the Philippines to include units of assault ballistic helmets.
offshore patrol boats, multipurpose
machine guns, ammunition, and rifles, From October 1 to 5, 2019, I visited
among others. Russia upon the invitation of President
Vladimir Putin. I also participated in
Pursued Defense Agreements with the 16 th Annual Meeting of the Valdai
Non-traditional Security Partners. Our Discussion Club to share my vision for
enhanced ties with Russia throughout the Philippines’ independent foreign
the years resulted in the signing of policy. The visit resulted in fruitful
19 agreements in various areas of agreements that further intensified
cooperation, such as agriculture, trade, cooperation not only in areas of
transportation, defense, security, and security and defense, but also in trade,
energy. culture, and education.

The President and the members of the Philippine delegation hold a bilateral meeting with Russian
President Vladimir Putin and the Russian delegation in Sochi, Russia on October 3, 2019. Philippine
delegation (from back to front): Senator Go, DOE Secretary Cusi, DTI Secretary Lopez, DND Secretary
Delfin N. Lorenzana, Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea, and DOF Secretary Dominguez.
Photo Credit: PCOO

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

We have also pursued defense Sustaining International Cooperation

cooperation and fostered relationships Towards Economic Development181
with non-traditional partners such as
Israel and Jordan. We continued to pursue an array
of economic and fiscal strategies to
For Israel, we completed our ensure that the economy can weather
implementing arrangements for external shocks. To this end, we
projects such as Unmanned Aerial sustained existing trade relations
Vehicles (UAV), 155-mm self- with our traditional partners and
propelled Howitzer, M113 armored aggressively built relationships with
personnel carrier upgrade, and light non-traditional partners to improve
tanks for the Philippine Army; UAVs trade.
and ground-based air defense system
for the PAF; multi-purpose assault Increased trade. During my diplomatic
craft-missile for the PN; and radar visits and bilateral engagements with
drone monitoring for the Presidential our partners, I have continuously
Security Group. pushed for closer economic cooperation
to create more viable opportunities in
In 2019, Jordan donated Cobra trade and investments. As a result, we
helicopters, 60-mm mortars, modified sustained improvements in total trade
M14 rifles, AK-47, RPG 7 launchers, (see Figure 5.4). Our top trading partners
and RPG 7 ammunition. in the same year were China, Japan, US,

Figure 5.4 Total Trade (2016-2019)

(in US$ Billion)

Exports Imports Total Trade

200.00 182.52
182.15
180.00 164.80
160.00 141.52
140.00
120.00 112.84 111.59
96.09
100.00 84.11
80.00
60.00
40.00 68.71 69.31 70.93
57.41
20.00
0.00
2016 2017 2018 2019

Source: PSA, as processed in Tradeline Philippines

Note: Numbers may not add up due to rounding.

181 DTI, July 16, 2020.

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Hong Kong, and South Korea (see Table Table 5.2 Top Trading Partners
5.2). (2019)

I want our people to enjoy and Share to

Total Trade in
maximize these opportunities as Country Total Trade
US$ Billion
(in %)
we sustain our efforts to establish a
more reliable and conducive business China 35.31 19.35
environment. Japan 21.25 11.65
US 19.64 10.76
In the past four years, we also signed
several trade mechanisms that have Hong Kong 13.22 7.24
yielded benefits to our local industries: South Korea 11.72 6.42

China. The Six-Year Development As part of a broad commitment to

Program for Economic and Trade ASEAN, tariff rate quota for eggs and
Development (2017-2022), signed salt were eliminated in May 2018,
in March 2017, paved the way for while rates for sugar were eliminated
increased bilateral trade, improved in January 2020.
market access for agricultural
products, and empowered MSMEs, Russia. 19 agreements in trade and
among others. investment promotion, industry
cooperation, and agriculture were
The Belt and Road Initiative, signed in signed in Russia in May 2017.
November 2018, enabled cooperation
in political, economic, financial, and Philippine fishery products have
sociocultural areas, among others. been allowed entry into the Russian
market since December 2018. In 2019,
Vietnam. In April 2017, both countries three MOUs were signed between
agreed on initiatives to improve Philippine tuna producers and their
trade and investment, and schemes to Russian counterparts. This facilitated
capitalize on the complementarities greater business opportunities for
of our countries in developing certain the country’s US$400-million tuna
industries and sectors. industry and jobs in Mindanao,
where 90 percent of Philippine tuna is
Vietnam has remained committed produced.
to ensuring supply of rice to meet
Philippine demand through its The first shipment of Philippine
participation in Philippine tenders, coconut milk to Russia arrived in
especially in the time of COVID-19. April 2020.

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Enhanced investor confidence. To Of the PhP1.3 trillion foreign

support our development goals, we investments approved in 2019, 29.80
promoted the ease of doing business. percent or PhP390.11 billion came
The record-high investment approvals from foreign investors. Among our
since 2017 (see Figure 5.5) indicates top foreign investors were Singapore,
the strong investor confidence that China, South Korea, Japan, and the
we have regained through our reform Netherlands.
agenda, particularly in improving
business processes and addressing With stronger trade relations and
corruption by strengthening investment confidence, the country
transparency in the government and was better positioned to cope with
streamlining government procedures the challenges that the year has
and transactions. brought us.

Figure 5.5 IPA-Approved Investment, 2016-2019 (in PhP billion)

Filipino investor Foreign investor

1,400 Total: 1,309.10

1,200 Total: 1,084.15

Total: 908.74 390.11
1,000 (29.80%)
105.75 183.35
(11.64%) (16.91%)
800
Total: 685.95
600
219.04
(31.93%) 900.81 918.99
400 803.00
(83.09%) (72.90%)
(88.36%)
200 466.91
(68.07%)

2016 2017 2018 2019

Source: DTI
Note: Numbers may not add up due to rounding.

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Way Forward: Soldiering on Towards the Path of

Peace, Security, and Development

The Filipino people have entrusted units to end the local communist
me with the duty of looking after the armed conflict and facilitate regional
nation. As security is central to our development and growth.
survival as a nation, our development
goals can only be realized if every We have laid down the foundation
Filipino is free from fear. Our path for local peace. However, to end
towards a comfortable life for all insurgency and usher in meaningful
will be paved by our relentless and development across the country, we
unwavering dedication to secure our need the local government to seize and
communities and pursue lasting and preserve the gains we have achieved.
meaningful peace.
In our whole-of-nation approach to
In the remaining years of my term, we peace, the local government serves
will continue to fuel the momentum as a formidable partner in security
of the peace process by supporting the and development. As for the
BTA in transitioning to an autonomous national government, we will focus
government. We will also aggressively on pursuing economic recovery,
pursue the harmonization of our security sustainable development, and
and development interventions on regional growth that would benefit
the ground, with greater and deeper all Filipinos.
participation of local government

The President leads the commemoration of the 156th birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio at the
Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan City on November 30, 2019.
Photo Credit: PCOO

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TOWA R D S A
BETTER NORMAL
FO R A L L
• Adapting to the New Normal
• Dispersing Economic Activities for
a Balanced Regional Development
• Ensuring the Filipino’s Well-being
and Resiliency

Photo Credit: DOT

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

“This is not a warning,

but rather an appeal,
that you should get
used to the way of life
we have now. It has
changed. We walk,
we practice social
distancing, we wash
hands, we wear masks.
And if possible, limit
your trips outside the
house.”

The President’s statement,

Talk to the People on
COVID-19, June 22, 2020

Photo Credit: PCOO

Adapting to the
Chapter New Normal

6
We need to come to terms with the fact that COVID-19
has changed our lives in ways that we never imagined.
It has brought us new challenges, with which all nations,
rich or poor, are now struggling to cope. We are entering
a period of new normal, and the way we lived a few
months ago, now seems a distant memory.

We entered 2020 with a strong growth prospect. We had

a strong fiscal position, falling debt-to-GDP ratio, and
lowest unemployment, underemployment, and poverty
rates. However, the community quarantines imposed to
contain the virus caused a decline in economic activities,
thereby putting a halt to our economic gains thus far.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has unprecedented effects

on our daily lives, lockdowns and mobility restrictions
cannot persist while waiting for a vaccine. Likewise, even

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after the health emergency is dealt With companies, schools, and

with, we will continue to contend government agencies implementing
with recession, unemployment, work-from-home arrangements, the use
budget deficits, corporate bailouts, of digital technology will increase
food scarcity, poverty, and a host of significantly. In addition, business
other socio-economic issues that must transactions such as online retail,
be addressed. online banking, online medical
consultations, and digital payments
Furthermore, while I have always will increasingly become a necessity.
emphasized the need to uphold the All these need to be supported by a
primacy of life of the Filipino people, reliable digital infrastructure with
not opening up the economy can lead strong cybersecurity protection.
to permanent damage to livelihood,
economic growth, and eventually While the global pandemic has exposed
human development. Thus, the the gaps in our existing systems, it also
need to reopen the economy under offered unique opportunities for us
the new normal. The latter, which to recover to a “better normal.” In the
is characterized by a significant interim, individual and institutional
change in the immediately preceding changes that adapt to the new normal
situation, like observing physical are necessary to enable us to overcome
distancing, strict personal hygiene, this pandemic as a nation.
and other health protocols. It has far-
reaching implications on different
dimensions. As such, until a vaccine
is developed and the disease is fully
eradicated, we cannot, and should
not, go back to our old ways.

For instance, in many service-oriented

organizations in the private and public
sector, flexible work arrangements
(e.g., skeleton workforce, work-from-
home, and compressed workweek)
will have to be implemented to avoid
the spread of the virus. Workspaces
will also need to be reconfigured
to address the need for physical
distancing. Talk to the People on COVID-19, June 15,
2020
Photo Credit: PCOO
In the transport sector, reduced load
factor accompanied by stringent
sanitary protocols in all modes of
public transportation will be part of
the new normal.

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Rebooting the Economy

year-on-year in the first quarter of 2020
(see Figure 6.1), the first contraction since
Figure 6.1 Gross Domestic Product the fourth quarter of 1998, when the
Year-On-Year Growth Rates country was reeling from the effects of
(2019 to Q1 2020) the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis.
8

6.7% Global disruptions, together with the

7 6.3%
6
5.7% 5.4% travel restrictions, deterioration in
5
business and consumer confidence,
4
and the imposition of community
3
quarantines, are estimated to reduce
2
domestic economic growth to anywhere
1
between -2.0 to -3.4 percent in 2020.
0 (0.2)%
Reduced revenues and higher spending
-1
due to the crisis are likewise expected
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1
2018-2019 2018-2019 2018-2019 2018-2019 2019-2020 to raise the budget deficit to at least eight
percent of GDP this year with a gradual
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority consolidation in the medium-term. In
addition, the World Trade Organization
Aside from health, our economy also bore estimates that world merchandise trade
the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic.182 would fall between 13 percent and 32
percent in 2020 alone.
In 2019, the lowest debt-to-GDP ratio
since 1986 was recorded at 39.6 percent; the
highest revenue effort since 1997 realized
at 16.1 percent of GDP; the highest credit
rating in the country’s history achieved at
BBB+ from Standard and Poor’s; and the
lowest rates of unemployment recorded
at 5.3 percent, underemployment at 14.8
percent, and poverty at 16.7 percent.

However, as we entered the year 2020,

we faced the Taal Volcano eruption in
January, immediately followed by the
COVID-19 pandemic, which compelled
the imposition of community quarantines
to contain the spread of the virus. Acting NEDA Secretary Karl Kendrick T.
Chua speaks during the First Quarter 2020
This caused a decline in most of our National Accounts Press Conference on May
economic activities, especially tourism 7, 2020.
and manufacturing. Consequently, the Photo Credit: Karl Kendrick Chua Official
country’s GDP declined by 0.2 percent Facebook Page

182 NEDA, July 17, 2020.

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Nonetheless, I am optimistic of the ability Philippine Program for Recovery

of our nation and economy to recover. with Equity and Solidarity
In April 2020, The Economist ranked (PH-Progreso)
the Philippines’ financial strength 6th
among 66 emerging economies, and As we restart the economy after the
the best among those ranked in Asia in disruptions caused by the COVID-19
terms of economic, fiscal, and financial pandemic, the government will work
management. tirelessly in pursuit of our country’s
recovery. My Economic Team crafted a
Furthermore, on July 16, 2020, Moody’s framework called the Philippine Program
Investors Service affirmed our country’s for Recovery with Equity and Solidarity
“Baa2” investment grade rating with a (PH-Progreso), which aims to rebound
“stable” economic outlook. In addition, our economy to the pre-crisis average real
the Japan Credit Rating Agency GDP growth of 6.6 percent (see Table 6.1).183
upgraded our rating from BBB plus to
A minus. These ratings, along with the As of May 19, 2020, we have so far
stable outlook, recognize our country’s programmed PhP1.74 trillion under
economic resiliency amidst the pandemic. the PH-Progreso. This includes the

Table 6.1 Stages and Key Features of PH-Progreso

EMERGENCY STAGE RECOVERY STAGE RESILIENCY STAGE

Period March to May 2020 June to December 2020 2021 onwards

Proposed Bayanihan I Bayanihan II, Corporate 2021 and 2022 GAAs and
or Issued Recovery and Tax Incentives other reform laws
Measures for Enterprises Act (CREATE)

Key • Budget and • Budget and procurement • 2021 and 2022

Features procurement flexibility flexibility budgets attuned to
• Subsidy to poor • Better targeted and actual needs
and low-income implemented Bayanihan • Structural reforms to
households programs to raise income prepare for the new
• Support for small and create jobs normal, including
businesses • Reprioritization of 2020 enhancing resiliency
budget to disasters and
• Support to key sectors pandemics
(e.g., agriculture and • Resumption of Build, Build,
OFWs) Build Program priorities • Support Balik
Probinsya, Bagong
• Health system, • Liquidity and equity infusion, Pag-asa Program
capacity, and and guarantee through the (decongestion of
insurance financial sector to support major urban centers,
• Support to frontliners firms balanced and
• Targeted tax incentives resilient regional
development)
Source: NEDA

183 Average for 2016 to 2019. (2016 – 7.1 percent, 2017 – 6.9 percent, 2018 – 6.4 percent, and 2019 – 6.0 percent).

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PhP595.62 billion for emergency II, which is aimed at stimulating private

support to vulnerable groups, consumption to create jobs and restore
PhP58.63 billion for resources to fight income levels, and provide liquidity to
COVID-19, and PhP1.09 trillion for firms. We are also requesting Congress to
fiscal and monetary actions. fast-track the enactment of the CREATE
Act, which aims to cut the corporate
However, we cannot execute all our income tax rate from the current 30
plans under the PH-Progreso without percent to 25 percent, among others.
the support of Congress. As such,
we are calling on our legislators to Moreover, we will prioritize health,
facilitate the passage of the Bayanihan infrastructure, agriculture, food value

Table 6.2 Some of the Proposed Reform Measures

Title Purpose

Bayanihan to Recover as • Supplement the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, which expired on
One Act or Bayanihan II June 25, 2020
• Include a PhP140-billion funding to support response measures to
address the COVID-19 pandemic

Corporate Recovery • Cut the corporate income levy from the current 30 percent to 25
and Tax Incentives percent starting July 2020
for Enterprises Act • Extend net operating loss carryover to all non-large taxpayers of
(previously referred to as up to five years from the current three years
Corporate Income Tax and • Provide a sunset provision of up to nine years for registered
Incentives Reform Act) business activities enjoying the five percent gross income earned
incentive
• Afford more flexibility for the government to grant a combination
of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives

Rural Agricultural and • Remove the distinction between agrarian and agriculture to free
Fisheries Development up more capital for agriculture and enhance the access of rural
Financing System Act communities to private sector financing

Financial Institutions • Set mechanisms to allow banks and other financial institutions to
Strategic Transfer (FIST) dispose of non-performing loans and assets, and transfer such
Act loans and assets to FIST Corporations similar to Special Purpose
Vehicles

Government Financial • Provide financial assistance and access to distressed enterprises,

Institutions Unified including micro, small, and medium enterprises, and strategically
Initiatives to Distressed important companies critical to economic recovery
Enterprises for Economic • Allow the creation of a special holding company to assist
Recovery Act strategically important companies affected by the COVID-19
pandemic

Sources: NEDA and DOF

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chain, digitization of government all key infrastructure projects under

process, and other new normal priorities the Build, Build, Build Program, but
in the 2021 General Appropriations with a strong reminder to follow strict
Act to ensure that the recovery stage is safety guidelines to avoid infection in
adequately supported. project sites. In furtherance thereof,
the DPWH issued Department Order
We are also pursuing measures to no. 39, series of 2020, which calls
for the implementation of minimum
strengthen our economy and boost the
health standards in construction sites.
performance and financial standing
of our industries. To support this, we To jump-start and revitalize the
endorsed to Congress the passage of economy, the government’s priority
various measures (see Table 6.2). infrastructure projects have resumed
construction. These include the NLEX-
Resumption of the Build, Build, SLEX Connector Road, Metro Manila
Build Program184 Skyway Stage 3, Central Luzon Link
Expressway, Clark International
In June 2020, we transitioned from the Airport’s New Passenger Terminal
Emergency to the Recovery Phase, which Building, LRT-1 Cavite Extension,
aims to boost consumer demand by LRT-2 East Extension, MRT-7, the
restoring people’s income and jobs. One Metro Manila Subway Project, and
of the major initiatives to achieve this is PNR Clark Phase 1 to name a few.
to restart the Build, Build, Build Program.
Upon my approval, the IATF-MEID You have our assurance that while
allowed the gradual resumption of timelines may have to be adjusted, we

The MRT-7 involves the construction of a 22-km line that will connect North Avenue in Quezon
City to the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. It will reduce travel time between North
Avenue, Quezon City and City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan from 2 to 3 hours to 35 minutes.
Photo Credit: DOTr

184 DPWH, July 15, 2020; and DOTr, July 16, 2020. .

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shall endeavor to get the Build, Build, Build

Program back on track.
Figure 6.2 Business Name
Registration of Businesses
Upswing of the Internet Economy185
Involved in Retail Sale via Internet
(January to June 2020)
The COVID-19 pandemic and the
resulting lockdowns we implemented to
contain it have heavily affected businesses.
Unsurprisingly, many of them have yet to 30,000

recover as sales revenues have continued 25,274

25,000
to hover below 30 to 40 percent as
compared to pre-pandemic revenues. 20,000

On the brighter side, reduced mobility 15,000

became an inflection point for our internet
9,648
economy, particularly eCommerce. It has 10,000

given our retailers, most of whom were

MSMEs, the opportunity to rethink their 5,000
741 673 421
business strategies and adopt online 387
0
platforms to continue their operations JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
even during this pandemic. With limited
mobility most likely to be imposed until Source: DTI
the eradication of the virus, we foresee a
boom in the internet economy as online Given the changing needs of Filipinos
purchases become part of the new normal. under the new normal, we are helping
businesses, especially MSMEs, to
The increase in the number of business adopt technological innovations
entities in retail sale online registered to improve their operations, and
during the community quarantine thus boost their productivity and
support this. The DTI reported that prior competitiveness. For instance, the
to the declaration of the state of national DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology
emergency or from January to March Upgrading Program (SETUP) funded
15, 2020, only 1,740 online businesses 253 new projects, releasing PhP278.33
registered their business names with the million innovation enabling fund
DTI. However, from March 16, 2020 until (iFund) from April 1 to June 30, 2020.
June 2020, there was a surge in business
name registration. In June 2020 alone, Furthermore, in coordination with
business name registration of online the DTI, MSMEs are being assisted
businesses reached 25,274 (see Figure 6.2). to go into digitalization through the
launching of various online platforms
such as the oneStore (for eCommerce),
oneExpert (for consultancy services),
and oneLab (for laboratory testing).
Around 80 webinars were conducted

185 DTI, July 16, 2020.

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to help MSMEs cope with the new the P3 to provide microfinancing for
normal, which were attended by more MSMEs. As of July 16, 2020, 3,711
than 8,000 MSMEs. loan applications worth PhP253.5
million have been approved.
In addition, to support MSMEs
amidst the pandemic and help them To fortify the eCommerce industry,
transition to the new normal, the DTI the DTI is updating our eCommerce
has partnered with several online Philippines 2022 Roadmap with a
platforms like Lazada and Shopee. strategy that focuses on security,
The DTI also conducted intensive speed, and structure. We are also
mentoring and coaching through its calling on Congress to revisit the
Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program. eCommerce Act of 2000.

To pump prime the recovery and As conducting business through the

rehabilitation of MSMEs, the internet is fast becoming the “New
DTI, through the Small Business Economy,” online transactions ought
Corporation, set up the PhP1 billion to be made safe for the protection
COVID-19 Assistance to Restart of the consuming public. In this
Enterprises (CARES) Program under regard, my Economic Managers
have endorsed various bills to
strengthen eCommerce, particularly
House Bill no. 6122 or the “Internet
Transactions Act.” The proposed bill
seeks to establish an eCommerce
Bureau that will focus on promoting
the development of eCommerce in
the country by strengthening online
consumer protection, and promoting
safer e-payment gateways, among
others.

“During the lockdown period, I With eCommerce growing and

was very grateful to have been evolving, we need to untangle
selected as one of the KMME structural and legal impediments to
online mentees nationwide. eCommerce and digital marketplace
Through this program, our sales growth. There is also a need to
increased by almost 300% by improve logistics performance and
using the knowledge I learned reduce logistics cost in the country.
during the modules. This
program brings us closer towards
making our entrepreneurial
dreams a reality.”

Ryan Candichoy
PC Extreme Computer Trading

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Reforming the Transportation Sector

Figure 6.3 Physical Distancing in PUVs

Source: DOTr
Figure 6.4 Gradual Opening of
The gradual reopening of our economy Public Transportation in Areas
calls for safe, seamless, and reliable under GCQ
transportation for people and goods.
To pave the way for this transition, we PHASE 1 PHASE 2
started institutionalizing several reforms
JUNE 1-21 JUNE 22-30

and adopted an updated Public Transport

Guidelines and Protocols for road, rail,
maritime, and air transportation.186 PUBLIC UTILITY BUSES
TRAIN AND BUS AUGMENTATION
(NO PROVINCIAL BUS ENTERING

Road Transport MANILA)

To balance the need to protect public health

UV EXPRESS
TAXIS AND TNVS
and provide mobility, we implemented
a gradual and calibrated approach in
allowing the operation of different modes MODERN PUVs

of public transportation (see Figure 6.4). SHUTTLE SERVICES

POINT-TO-POINT (P2P) BUSES INCLUDING ALL
MODES ALLOWED
BICYCLES IN PHASE 1

Source: DOTr

186 DOTr, July 16, 17, 19, and 20, 2020.

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While the plan was to allow Public Alongside these interventions, we

Utility Buses to operate after the are encouraging public and private
implementation of Phase 1, we saw as organizations to provide shuttle services
early as June 1, 2020 that with the reduced for their employees to help protect them
capacity of our public transportation, we from contracting the virus.
needed to immediately rationalize the
bus routes in Metro Manila for a more
effective traffic management. Figure 6.5 Public Transport
Allowed to Operate
Thus, on June 24, 2020, we finished the as of July 5, 2020
rationalization of the bus routes from
96 to 31. These 31 routes stretched from
north to south covering Angat, Bulacan to
Biñan, Laguna, as well as from southwest
294
P2P BUSES
to east covering Cavite to Rizal. OPERATING IN ALMOST
30 ROUTES

We undertook the operationalization of

the modern Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJs)
in phases in keeping with our calibrated
4,600 BUSES
OPERATING IN
response to restore mass transportation in 31 RATIONALIZED ROUTES
Metro Manila and adjacent provinces. As
of June 26, 2020, more than 600 modern MORE THAN
PUJs were given the green light to ply 34
routes. 600
MODERN JEEPNEYS
We also allowed 980 UV express vehicles OPERATING IN 34 ROUTES

plying in 47 routes in Metro Manila and

6,002
nearby provinces to operate starting June
29, 2020. Furthermore, after a thorough
study and consultation, on July 3, 2020, TRADITIONAL JEEPNEYS
we allowed 6,002 traditional jeepneys to OPERATING IN 49 ROUTES

operate in 49 routes within Metro Manila

and nearby provinces.

As of July 5, 2020, we have allowed the

980
UV EXPRESS
operation of more than 54,000 vehicles
OPERATING IN 47 ROUTES

to ply their routes in Metro Manila and

nearby provinces (see Figure 6.5). 22,230
TNVS UNITS
To help our commuters adjust to the
changes in the transportation sector,
the DOTr has ordered the suspension 19,409
of fare increase in all public modes of TAXIS
transportation.
Source: DOTr

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Figure 6.6 Transformation of EDSA Design Approach

Source: DOTr

We have likewise started the We are also harnessing the advantages

transformation of Metro Manila’s main of technology in road-based transport to
thoroughfare from being polluted, noisy, minimize physical contact or face-to-face
and congested into a “new EDSA,” which interaction (see Figure 6.7).
prioritizes the mobility and safety of our
people over cars (see Figure 6.6).
Figure 6.7 Key Modernization
In particular, we are establishing dedicated
Initiatives in the Transport Sector
bus lanes or busways along EDSA to help
ensure faster travel, improve the reliability
of bus services, attain efficient use of road ONLINE TRANSACTIONS IN LICENSING,
REGISTRATION, AND OTHER DOCUMENTARY
space, and more importantly, guarantee REQUIREMENTS
the safety of bus drivers, operators, and
passengers. The interim operations of the
EDSA Busway began on July 1, 2020.
LTFRB’s PUBLIC LTO’s LAND
Covering bus stops from Monumento to TRANSPORT ONLINE TRANSPORTATION
Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, PROCESSING SYSTEM
(PTOPS)
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(LTMS)
the EDSA Busway has significantly cut
travel time between these two areas from
an average of two to three hours, to one CASHLESS PAYMENT ELECTRONIC TOLL
hour and 20 minutes. TRANSACTIONS IN COLLECTION AND
PUVs, TAXIS, AND INTEROPERABILITY
TNVS THROUGH THE OF TOLL
Soon, we will see more structures AUTOMATIC FARE
COLLECTION SYSTEM
COLLECTIONS IN ALL
THE EXPRESSWAYS
complementing the busways such
as loading and unloading stations,
pedestrian overpass or at-grade crossings
for commuters, lifts to provide access to
persons with disabilities, and bicycle lanes.
We are targeting to finish the installation
of the bicycle lane separators along EDSA The PTOPS and LTMS are presently
within the third quarter of 2020. implemented in selected areas in the country.
Source: DOTr

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In addition, we are ensuring that safety

nets are institutionalized to help our
Figure 6.8 Passenger Riding
transportation sector adapt to these Capacity under GCQ
reforms. One of which is the support LINE LRV TYPE* CAPACITY PER TRAIN SET**
PERCENT
CAPACITY

to PUV operators in procuring their STANDING SITTING TOTAL

vehicles under the Public Utility Vehicle 1G 42 93 135

Modernization Program (PUVMP). 2G 40 112 152 12%
LRT-1 3G 48 140 188
Considering the economic factors that
contributed to the increase in the price of - 48 112 160 10%
modernized PUV units from PhP1.6 million
LRT-2
to PhP2.4 million, we doubled the equity
subsidy from PhP80,000 to PhP160,000
for existing PUV operators with valid
- 63 90 153 13%
franchises and those applying for new and MRT-3
8100
developmental routes under the PUVMP. Series 102 96 198
The increase of the equity subsidy is
8000
Series 73 70 143 20%
retroactive, thereby covering loans since PNR
DMU
Rotem 84 72 156
2018. *Refers to Light Rail Vehicle.
**The number of passengers per train car is based
on the physical simulation of passengers inside a
Rail Transport train car while maintaining a one-meter physical
distance.
On June 1, 2020, we allowed the LRT- Source: DOTr
1, LRT-2, MRT-3, and PNR to resume
operations but with limited capacity and
subject to health and safety protocols (see Maritime Transport
Figure 6.8).

We also implemented the MRT-3 Bus

Augmentation Program to bridge
the gap in MRT-3 capacity due to the
implementation of one-meter physical
distance inside trains with a fixed
schedule of dispatchment. From June
1, 2020 to July 15, 2020, the MRT-3 Bus
Augmentation Program has served almost
252,800 passengers, with 17,734 trips made
by a maximum of 90 bus units deployed
daily.

Rail service digitalization is also being

undertaken to mitigate COVID-19
transmission. Payment options were
broadened to include digital payment Precautionary measures such as foot bath and
systems. stair markings are implemented in 2Go ship.
Photo Credit: 2Go Official Facebook Page

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In maritime transportation, aside from international travel, together with

precautionary measures, we also reduced the GMR MEGAWIDE Cebu Airport
to half the capacity of all vessels to enforce Corporation, we opened on June 21,
physical distancing among passengers 2020 in the Mactan-Cebu International
and personnel. Airport (MCIA) a dedicated COVID-19
PCR testing laboratory. The laboratory is
To limit face-to-face transactions, the designed to process 1,500 to 3,000 tests
Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) per day with test results available after 24
is working on the installation of an hours.
Automated Passenger Ticketing System
in all passenger terminals nationwide.
This system was pilot-tested in March 2020
and is targeted to be implemented by the
fourth quarter of 2020. In addition, on July
13, 2020, the PPA launched its electronic-
payment portal to digitize the collection of
port charges.

Air Transport

In accordance with health protocols,

sanitary and precautionary measures
were also institutionalized in our airport
terminals. International standards in
physical distancing inside aircrafts as
prescribed by the International Civil
Aviation Organization and International
Air Transport Association, whenever
applicable, are also being followed as Airport-Dedicated COVID-19 PCR Testing
the minimum standard. Websites, mobile Laboratory at the MCIA
Photo Credit: MCIA Official Facebook Page
applications, and education programs
through social media, are being
maximized to inform and engage the
passengers about our safety protocols. We also closely coordinated with LGUs on
the resumption of operations of airports.
At the Ninoy Aquino International On July 16, 2020, we allowed 32 airports
Airport (NAIA), physical distancing in GCQ areas to resume their commercial
measures are being strictly implemented flights. Operations of international
at all queuing points inside and outside flights at the NAIA Terminal 3, which
the terminal buildings. To ensure physical temporarily closed on March 28, 2020,
distancing, floor markings were placed in resumed on July 8, 2020 (see Figure 6.9).
all queuing points. On the other hand, 14 airports were not
allowed to resume commercial flights
Since testing capability would be a while flights with special clearance from
prerequisite for the resumption of the LGUs were allowed for three airports.

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FIGURE 6.9 Airports Allowed to Resume Flights

as of July 16, 2020

Basco Airport

Cauayan Airport

Palanan Airport

Clark International Airport Kalibo International Airport

Legazpi Airport
Ninoy Aquino International
Airport
Masbate Airport

Marinduque Airport Virac Airport

Romblon Airport
Catarman Airport
San Jose Airport Catbalogan-Buri Airport

Bacolod-Silay Airport
Ormoc Airport
Antique Airport
Borongan Airport
Busuanga Airport
Tacloban Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport
Laguindingan Airport
Puerto Princesa International Airport
Butuan Airport

Dipolog Airport

Ozamiz Airport

Pagadian Airport Davao International Airport

Cotabato Airport

Zamboanga Airport

Jolo Airport
General Santos Airport

Airports allowed to resume flights.

Airports will be accepting flights subject to restrictions of the LGU.
Source: DOTr - CAAP

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Restructuring the Education Sector

The BE-LCP adheres to the following
principles:
• Protect the health, safety and well-
being of learners, teachers and
personnel, and prevent the further
transmission of COVID-19;
• Ensure learning continuity;
• Facilitate the safe return of learners
and teachers to school when face-
to-face classes are allowed;
• Be sensitive to equity considerations
and concerns, and endeavor to
address them as best as we can; and
• Link and bridge the BE-LCP to
DepEd’s pivot to quality and into
A Grade 1 student tries navigating the the future of education, under the
DepEd Commons website. framework of Sulong EduKalidad
Photo Credit: PMS
and Education Futures.

We should not allow the COVID-19 The BE-LCP is not just a response to
pandemic to compromise the education the current pandemic but is also part
of our youth. While the world is of our long-term response to the call of
still looking for a vaccine to fully Sustainable Development Goal No. 4
contain the virus, our government to develop resilient education systems,
shall endeavor to provide education most especially during emergencies to
services while keeping in mind the ensure education continuity through
safety, health, and well-being, not curriculum and instruction that are
only of our students but also of our adaptive to the needs of the current
dedicated and hardworking teachers times.
and school personnel. 187
The operationalization of the BE-LCP
Basic Education-Learning is guided by a Roadmap to Readiness,
Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) with key components and activities
formulated by the DepEd, including
The DepEd has adopted the BE-LCP, the following:
a holistic approach to education that
will ensure learning opportunities in
the time of COVID-19 and until face-
to-face classes are safe to implement.

187 DepEd, July 20, 2020; and CHED, July 16, 2020.

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Remote Enrollment Streamlining the K to 12 Curriculum

to the Most Essential Learning
Aside from a purely online enrollment Competencies (MELCs)
using various electronic platforms,
enrollment drop boxes have been set up in The MELCs aim to focus instruction to
schools and barangay halls for the picking the most essential and indispensable
up and dropping-off of the Learner and competencies that our learners must
Enrollment Survey Form (LESF), to cater acquire as we anticipate challenges in
to families who have no access to virtual learning delivery.
platforms for remote enrollment.
The primary determining factor
I am glad that these trying times did not considered by the DepEd in selecting
weaken our youth’s resolve to pursue the MELCs is “enduring” learning
education as evidenced by the 21.55 competencies such as research skills,
million total learners who have enrolled reading comprehension, writing, map
as of July 20, 2020. This total represents reading, and hypothesis testing, which
77.55 percent of the 27.79 million enrollees are essential in many professions and in
in the previous school year (SY). The everyday life.
enrollment in public schools has reached 90
percent of the previous year’s enrollment. The 14,171 learning competencies under
To accommodate those who have yet to the K to 12 Curriculum have been
enroll, the DepEd will continue to accept streamlined to 5,689 MELCs, which will
late enrollees until September 2020 (see apply only for SY 2020–2021. The DepEd
Figure 6.10). has maintained the K to 12 curriculum
standards in the MELCs to ensure that
Figure 6.10 Enrollment the target learning outcomes are still
as of July 20, 2020 achieved. The DepEd also incorporated
regular feedback gathering from partners
and stakeholders to further enhance
1.47M 10.63M and make the MELCs contribute to the
broader review of the DepEd of the K to
KINDERGARTEN ELEMENTARY
12 curriculum.
6.78M 2.32M Blended and Distance Learning
JHS SHD
Delivery

55,219 290,822 In blended and distance learning delivery,

LEARNER ALTERNATIVE students can have access to lessons in the
WITH DISABILITIES LEARNING
(NON-GRADED) SYSTEM comfort and safety of their homes through
various means. Self-Learning Modules
(SLMs) in printed format can be distributed
TOTAL: 21.55 M straight to the learners’ respective houses
or can be picked up by their parents at
Numbers may not add up due to rounding. designated places within coordinated
Source: DepEd schedules.

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The DepEd has finished developing SLMs As online learning is one of the
for all subjects and grade levels. These alternative delivery modalities for SY
SLMs will also be rendered into various 2020–2021, the DepEd is in the process
formats, including digital, TV, and radio- of assuring that the DepEd Commons
based instructions. will be able to accommodate 17 million
users who will use it together with
Both students and teachers can also the DepEd’s Learning Management
utilize online learning resources such as System.
the DepEd Commons, an online portal
where teaching and learning resources The Learning Management System is
can be downloaded without data charges a software that will allow teachers to
courtesy of telecommunications companies create virtual classes where they can
that partnered with the DepEd. As of July assign activities to learners, monitor
10, 2020, 8.5 million students and teachers if the activities have been completed,
have registered and can access and and conduct online quizzes to assess
download learning materials from the said comprehension.
online portal.
In addition, the DepEd and DICT
are building up the Public Education
Network to connect all public schools
and DepEd offices nationwide by
2022. For SY 2020–2021, all last mile
schools, or those that are not easily
accessible, are prioritized to be
connected via satellite and energized
via solar energy.

In support of the Learning Continuity

Program through blended learning,
271,538 ICT equipment have been
delivered to schools as of May 2020.
Another set of 119,850 ICT equipment
will be delivered before the end of this
year. On top of these, the government
is procuring more than 36,600 ICT
equipment. All these, together with the
more than one million ICT equipment
that have been distributed by the
DepEd, shall increase the number of
schools with ICT equipment from 93
percent to 98.7 percent.

DepEd Commons home page

Source: DepEd

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programs on blended or distance

learning delivery modalities, which
shall be implemented from July to
August 2020. Webinars on various
topics have also been conducted,
benefitting 337,486 public school
teachers and 10,521 private school
teachers nationwide as of June 22, 2020.

The DepEd is conducting local

simulations and dry runs of the
Sample of localized TV show derived from modular learning delivery to see how
Most Essential Learning Competencies it works under various conditions. One
Source: DepEd Facebook Page
example is a simulation conducted in
On July 2, 2020, the DepEd and Navotas City from June 30 to July 3,
DICT, through the National 2020, which received positive feedback
Telecommunications Commission from parents, learners, legislators,
(NTC), requested television, radio, and education stakeholders, and the general
cable operators to broadcast educational public. Also, a national simulation
materials and instructions to reach and dry run to demonstrate the
more students. This is on top of the Department’s readiness on a national
mandated airing by cable operators of scale for the August 24, 2020 opening
free public service features, including of classes is scheduled for the second
education, cultural, and civic programs. week of August.
This collaboration will also initiate the
allocation of free internet bandwidth to Flexible Learning in Higher
public schools and encourage businesses Education
that provide telecommunications
services, community cable, and internet The higher education sector’s main
service to do the same. concern for Academic Year (AY) 2020–
2021 is to prevent the spread of COVID-19
Teachers’ Upskilling and Reskilling while maintaining continuity in the
for Blended and Distance Learning provision of quality education. In line
Delivery with this, the CHED has shifted teaching-
learning process from the traditional in-
Our educators need training to campus instruction to flexible learning.
keep them abreast with the latest Recognizing the varying situations and
developments in teaching methods adaptive capacity of college students to
that can adapt to the conditions during flexible learning methods, the CHED
the pandemic. has conducted public consultation on
the customization of delivery modes
The National Educators Academy of responsive to students’ needs.
the Philippines, DepEd’s unit for the
professional development of teachers Under the flexible learning method,
and school leaders, developed training higher education institutions (HEIs)

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Philippines, University of Saskatchewan

of Canada, Universidad Catolica de
Murcia of Spain). These resources
cover a variety of disciplines including
agriculture, architecture, business,
engineering, fine arts, humanities, mass
communication, and medical studies,
for students and educators in tertiary
education. The CHED will also give
grants for the development of online and
offline learning resources to widen the
“I was amazed when I first reach of PHL CHED Connect.
opened the PHL CHED Connect
because it already contained Furthermore, the CHED directed HEIs
various ebooks and information to explore partnerships with relevant
in different kinds of fields. It is agencies and organizations to strengthen
more amazing because it is easy and complement existing resources,
to navigate. It can definitely infrastructure, or connectivity to ensure
help us college students this undisrupted learning of the students.
school year especially in this
time of pandemic where online Opening of Classes for AY 2020-2021
classes are very reliant on these
websites. I’m looking forward to HEIs shall adopt a rolling opening of
utilizing the PHL CHED Connect classes based on the mode of learning
this coming school year.” delivery, compliance with minimum
health standards and protocols, and
Trixy Marie Macaraeg situations on the ground (see Table 6.3).
Student
Table 6.3 Schedule of Opening
of Classes Based on Learning
shall implement mechanisms so that
students can receive, or access printed
Delivery
or digital course packages, which may
include course syllabi, study guides, LEARNING DELVERY OPENING OF CLASSES
learning activities, schedule of lessons,
grading system, and student support Any time after May
systems, among others, to assist students Full online education
31, 2020
in managing their study time and
maximizing their learning. Flexible learning, a
combination of physical Anytime in August
classes and use of 2020
On June 23, 2020, the CHED launched the other alternatives
PHL CHED Connect (https://phlconnect.
ched.gov.ph/), an online portal containing Significant face-to-face Not earlier than
free learning resources contributed by or in person mode September 1, 2020
leading HEIs and international learning
institutions (e.g., British Council Source: CHED

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To ensure quality of education, regardless that scholarship grants and other tertiary
of the mode of delivery, HEIs must education subsidies of qualified and
ensure appropriate facility for delivering deserving students shall not be hampered.
instruction, faculty complement, and If needed, they may impose more lenient
student support. The CHED has likewise policies such as the policy on maximum
directed HEIs to work with stakeholders residence, to ensure that the students’
and prepare a contingency or continuity academic standing or status in the
plan in case there are suspected or confirmed programs is not adversely affected.
cases of COVID-19 in their respective
jurisdictions. School ceremonies and Enhancing the capabilities of HEI
activities that constitute mass gathering Faculty
remain prohibited in high risk quarantine
areas. The CHED has partnered with the DICT
to enhance the capability of HEI faculty
Flexible Enrollment for flexible learning. A series of webinars
to improve teaching essentials were
HEIs shall implement any of the flexible conducted from May 26 to June 29, 2020.
enrollment procedures for AY 2020-2021
We are also pursuing other measures
to equip our HEI educators with the
Figure 6.11 Enrollment
necessary skills to adapt to the new normal
Procedures in HEIs
such as the establishment of multi-media
or learning resource centers, which will
ONLINE ENROLLMENT
AND PAYMENT THROUGH be used by faculty members for online
REMITTANCE SERVICES teaching; establishment of e-library or
SCHEDULING OF STUDENTS
open educational resources; utilization
WHO WILL BE ALLOWED TO of a learning management system;
ENROLL ON ANY GIVEN DAY grants or capacity-building programs
OPENING OF SATELLITE
on transitioning to flexible learning; and
ENROLLMENT SITES AS utilization of networking to facilitate
PRACTICABLE capacity building and resource sharing.

Currently, the CHED is identifying the

Source: CHED
SUCs with existing learning management
system to which the DICT may provide
(see Figure 6.11). possible hosting support for free. A
survey instrument to determine the
Unhampered Provision of ICT competency of faculty is also
Scholarship Grants being developed. Based on the result
of the survey, the CHED and DICT will
The importance of scholarship grants to provide targeted learning interventions
help our youth pursue higher education is to address the identified ICT-knowledge
best exemplified in this time of pandemic. gaps. Relatedly, training on data privacy
Thus, the CHED advised HEIs to establish and cyber security for faculty and
clear communication plans to ensure administrators will also be provided.

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Assistance to Private Schools

Figure 6.12 LBP
ACADEME Program
The pandemic also affected the
operations of our partners in the private
ELIGIBLE LOAN PURPOSE
sector.
Refinancing/rediscounting of Promissory
The DepEd has existing assistance Notes (PNs) issued by the parents or
benefactors of students to enable students
programs to private schools under the
to enroll, continue and complete their
Government Assistance to Students and studies.
Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE).
These programs include Education LOANABLE AMOUNT

70%
Service Contracting (ESC) and Senior of the PNs issued by the parents/
High School (SHS) Voucher Program, benefactors of the students
on a per semester basis and
which provide tuition subsidies to
subject further to a maximum
students in private Junior High Schools amount based on the school’s net
(JHSs) and SHS and non-DepEd schools, borrowing capacity as per LBP
respectively. Meanwhile, the Teachers’ computation.
Salary Subsidy is a GASTPE program
that provides annual salary subsidy to INTEREST RATE
full-time teachers in ESC-participating
3%
per annum fixed up to the
JHSs. maturity date

In addition, the LBP offers loan Source: LBP

assistance to schools through the
Academic Development to Empower the The LBP also offers direct loans of up to
Masses towards Endless Opportunities PhP300,000 per parent or guardian of
(ACADEME) lending program. Under qualified student of the DepEd, CHED,
this, the LBP shall provide credit fund to or TESDA under the Interim Student’s
private high schools, private Technical- Loan for Tuitions towards Upliftment
Vocational and Education Training of Education for the Development of
(TVET) Institutions, and private HEIs, the Youth (I-STUDY) lending program,
allowing these institutions to provide which shall cover tuition and other
continuing education to their students enrollment-related fees. The program
through the study-now and pay-later will be available from SY 2021 to 2022.
scheme. The program offers an affordable fixed
interest rate of five percent per annum for
As of July 1, 2020, PhP260 million short-term loans for pre-school, primary,
worth of loans have been approved and secondary students payable within
and over 80 private educational one year, as well as for long-term loans
institutions have expressed interest in for tertiary students payable up to a
accessing the credit facility (see Figure maximum of three years, inclusive of one
6.12). year grace period on the principal.188

188 LBP, July 15, 2020.

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Way Forward: Towards a Safer and Better

Philippines under the Next Normal
As I have always emphasized, in repairing or rehabilitating classrooms
our transition to the new normal, and calamity-related damages.
the health and safety of our people
is paramount, Buhay Muna. We shall Moreover, we aim to support businesses
always balance this with the need to by providing liquidity and equity
spur the economy. infusion and targeted tax incentives.
In this regard, I call on our partners
Building on our initiated efforts, we in Congress for the swift passage of
will continue to undertake technology- our proposed bills on spending and
driven, integrated, and sustainable capital support such as the CREATE,
reforms that will revolutionize our FIST, GUIDE, and Rural Agricultural
transportation sector to become safer and Fisheries Development Financing
and more efficient, reliable, and System. In 2021, we shall be
environment-friendly. implementing a reprioritized 2021
budget and undertaking further
The new normal also calls for less structural reforms to better prepare
face-to-face government transactions. our country for the next normal.
As such, we shall endeavor to allow
our people to access more government Let me reiterate my appeal, as we
transactions online. Given this, we step up our economic activities, let
shall also aim for faster and more us ensure that health measures are
reliable internet services nationwide. strictly followed. Let us always act
with caution not out of fear but based
When a vaccine becomes available on faith in our collective capacity to
and face-to-face schooling resumes, keep the pandemic under control and
we must remain vigilant. We need to move forward as one towards a Better
keep our guard up by observing the Philippines in the Next Normal.
necessary health standards in schools;
disinfecting school premises; and

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“Together, let us work

hard to lay down the
physical foundations
of a more progressive
and prosperous nation
so that our countrymen
will enjoy at the very
least, not a rich life,
not even a bar lower
than that, but at least a
comfortable life.”

The President’s speech during the

inauguration of the Parañaque
Integrated Terminal Exchange on
November 5, 2018

The 89.21-km Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) connecting Tarlac City and Rosario, La Union
becomes fully operational in July 2020.
Photo Credit: DPWH

Chapter Dispersing Economic

7 Activities Toward
Balanced Regional
Development
Equipped with the learnings from this pandemic, we
will bounce back stronger as one nation. Through
our innate resilience as Filipinos, we have weathered
many storms. We will not allow the gains that we
achieved these past years to be put to waste by this
pandemic. We will take this opportunity to further
enhance our strategies towards building forward
better in the next normal.

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Even before the advent of this pandemic, population, while at the same time
a balanced, responsive, and sustained addressing the ailment that has caused
regional development has always been its decay. We likewise need to propel
one of my top priorities. For decades, and sustain economic development
our country’s development had been across the nation to unburden our
consistently inequitable. Economic traditional urban centers from the perils
growth was mostly concentrated in of congestion and pollution, which
the metropolis, attracting people from the current pandemic has painfully
the countryside to flock to the cities in reminded us of. Consequently, this
search of better opportunities. In the shall also provide more Filipinos with
case of Metro Manila, this has resulted better opportunities for development.
in congestion, urban decay, perpetual
We rationalized our infrastructure
traffic, and proliferation of slum areas.
projects under the Build, Build,
We need to commence the gradual Build Program to focus on high-
dispersal of the capital’s dense impact projects, prioritizing transport
and mobility and information and
communications technology. This list
of infrastructure projects is evolving
and subject to adjustments based on
need. A significant number of these
projects shall be completed or partially
operational by 2022, while the rest
shall be made shovel-ready moving
into the next administration. 189 We
shall ensure the swift implementation
of these projects, which would help
our nation bounce back.
Together with enhancing national
connectivity towards regional
development, we also institutionalized
the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa
Program, which shall harmonize our
strategies to promote balanced urban
and rural development through the
empowerment of local industries,
boosting of agricultural productivity,
provision of adequate social services,
and development of infrastructure.
Ongoing construction of the 46.03-km
Agusan del Sur-Agusan del Norte Bypass
Road to connect the two provinces.
Photo Credit: DPWH

189 BCDA, November 6, 2019.

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Empowering the People through Information

and Communications Technology (ICT)

This tech-savvy senior citizen proves that there is no age limit when it comes to connectivity.
Photo Credit: DICT

ICT drives socio-economic development. these, alongside measures to ensure

According to the World Bank, ICT cybersecurity and the protection of the
promotes economic growth by Filipino from cybercrimes, especially in
encouraging investments, generating the age of the internet economy.
revenues and employment, enhancing
competitiveness, and dispersing Ensuring Internet Accessibility to All
economic activities in the countryside.190 Filipinos191

Since the start of my Administration, The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us

we pursued improvements in ICT to to minimize face-to-face interactions
promote productivity and efficiency and migrate to more technology- and
to help us achieve our developmental internet-based transactions. Although
aspirations. We have gained grounds in the pandemic abruptly disrupted our
reforming the country’s ICT landscape lives, we were able to start the shift
through game-changing reforms such as towards the new normal in doing
the opening of the telecommunications business (see Chapter 3 for online
industry to more competition. However, government transactions and Chapter 4 for
we acknowledge that more needs to be online services for MSMEs). As we move
done, particularly towards improving to the next normal, we will pursue better
internet speed, cost, and accessibility. We facilities and initiatives to connect every
shall continue to pursue efforts towards Juana and Juan Dela Cruz.

190 World Bank, Information and Communication Technologies: Results Profile, April 13, 2013.
191 DICT, July 17 and 20, 2020.

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Intensified the Free Wi-Fi for All (FW4A) address these concerns and provide our
Project. Even prior to the pandemic, we people with reliable internet connectivity.
invested in projects to provide Filipinos
with internet access. We implemented National Broadband Plan (NBP). To provide
in 2017 the FW4A (formerly Pipol fast and reliable internet connection
Konek), which provides free internet even in the hardest to reach places of the
access in 1,634 cities and municipalities country, we launched the NBP in 2017.
nationwide. Under the project, we It aims to improve the country’s internet
established live sites in public areas and speed through the provision of fiber optic
State Universities and Colleges where cables and wireless technologies.
people can access free internet service.
From the 1,396 live sites as of June 2018, In November 2017, the DICT signed
we increased the number to 2,692 by a Landing Party Agreement with the
June 2019, and further expanded this to Bases Conversion and Development
4,031 by June 2020, serving 6.88 million Authority and Facebook for the
users across the country. government’s construction of the Luzon
Bypass Infrastructure (LBI). The LBI is a
Connected Far-flung Government Facilities 250-kilometer high-speed internet cable
and Offices. In addition to the FW4A network corridor that will provide a
sites, we installed free Wi-Fi connection terrestrial bypass route for international
in 221 government facilities and offices submarine cable owners who seek to
nationwide, particularly in far-flung avoid damage to their infrastructure in
areas. the earthquake-prone Luzon Strait.
As of June 2020, we have completed
To ensure that every Filipino is properly
equipped as we move to the next normal,
we shall expedite the establishment and
activation of 23,100 additional live sites
by 2021. We aim to almost triple this
number to 67,233 live sites in various
areas of the country by 2022.

Improving ICT Competitiveness192

We acknowledge that we are among the

countries with the slowest and most
expensive internet connection in the
world. This was made more apparent
during the onset of the community
quarantines as internet traffic became
The National Broadband Plan shall ensure
saturated. From the very start of this stronger and faster internet connection and
Administration, we committed to accessibility.
Photo Credit: DICT

192 DICT, July 17 and 20, 2020; and Office of the Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs and Projects (OPAFPP), July 20, 2020.

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the construction of the Cable Landing network. Dito’s entry into the
Stations in Baler, Aurora, and in Poro telecommunications industry is expected
Point, La Union. We aim to complete the to ramp up competition in the market,
terrestrial roadwork and the installation which shall ultimately redound to faster,
of vital ICT equipment by end-July and cheaper, and reliable internet connection
end-October 2020, respectively. These for the common Filipino.
shall enable us to access two Terabits
(Tb) of data capacity. In October 2019, Dito entered into
agreements with various tower
The NBP and its facilities shall be online construction and key contractor
by the end of 2021, to provide every companies and acquired more than 3,000
Filipino with fast and stable internet sites for its infrastructure development. It
connection. also signed an agreement with the League
of Municipalities of the Philippines to
New Player in the Telecommunications provide a dedicated nationwide fiber
Market. In 2019, we welcomed Dito network that would directly connect
Telecommunity Corporation, then known the different municipalities across the
as the Mindanao Islamic Telephone country and public areas, including
Company, Inc. (MISLATEL), as the schools.
country’s third telecommunications

“Now that we are moving towards greater capacity in information and communications
technology, we will have better opportunities to improve our personal, social, political, and
economic aspirations.” - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte

The President presents the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to MISLATEL on
July 8, 2019 as DICT Secretary Gregorio Honasan II looks on.
Photo Credit: PCOO

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Out of its first-year commitment of 1,300 on existing communication towers in

towers, 300 are now live, which cover 28 cities and municipalities across 27
nine percent of the population, while 500 provinces to strengthen network signal.
others have been erected and are set to
operate by July 2020. It has also signed Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Act. Last
deals with three common tower builders year, I signed into law RA no. 11202 or
for 500 more towers. Dito is expected the MNP Act, which allows subscribers
to commence commercial operations to keep their mobile number even if they
by March 2021 to provide an average switch service providers or change their
internet speed of 27 megabits per second subscription from postpaid to prepaid,
(Mbps) within its first year, which is or vice-versa, free of charge. Under this
significantly faster than the existing law, consumers shall not be charged
broadband speed in the country. This porting fees and no interconnection
will further increase to 55 Mbps within charge among the mobile network
five years after its initial operations. operators: Globe, Smart, and Dito.

Common Tower Policy. To address Globe, PLDT, and Dito formed the
the nation’s connectivity needs and Telecommunications Connectivity, Inc.
ensure more access to cost-efficient ICT for the implementation of the MNP
infrastructure, we are implementing Act. The three companies also tapped
the Common Tower Policy, which Syniverse to be the MNP service provider.
encourages private investments in the Syniverse will bring in the technical
propagation of telecommunications infrastructure that would serve as the
towers in the country, especially in clearinghouse of the telcos and ensure
unserved and underserved areas. the smooth implementation of number
The Common Tower Policy allows porting services.
telecommunication companies (telcos)
to share towers, helping them bring By 2021, we shall pursue the initial
down their operational costs and avoid implementation of the MNP Act. With
the duplication of network resources. this, and the Common Tower Policy,
every Filipino shall enjoy stronger
In June 2020, we issued the policy signal and better quality of mobile
guidelines on Co-location and Sharing phone communications.
of Passive Telecommunication Tower
Infrastructure for Macro Cell Sites. Increasing Productivity through ICT193
Under these guidelines, we allowed
independent tower companies to ICT plays an important role in
construct cell sites and fill the estimated intensifying information accessibility,
50,000 cellular towers needed to speed enhancing economic performance, and
up telco connection. In addition, we are maximizing opportunities. As we
also set to install IP Microwave Radios move away from the effects of the

193 DICT, July 17 and 20, 2020.

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pandemic, we will continue to equip integrated system aimed at developing

every Filipino with the necessary the ICT skills of Filipinos towards
facilities and mechanisms to improve increased productivity and efficiency.
their lives through ICT. The ICT Academy will provide ICT-
related training to upskill and reskill
Technology for Education, Employment, our local workforce, and increase their
Entrepreneurs, and Economic capability to get higher value jobs and
Development (Tech4ED) Project. participate in the digital economy. The
Alongside our efforts to provide better ICT Academy will be made accessible
and reliable connections, we also to Filipinos through the Skills Window
aim to maximize the opportunities PH and the Digital Transformation
associated with technology and Centers.
connectivity. Thus, we implemented
the Tech4ED Project, which aims to Government and private sector
provide opportunities for employment workers, freelancers, entrepreneurs,
and empower entrepreneurs in the or students would be able to gain ICT
countryside through an ICT portal in skills that would enable them to adapt
a common center. A Tech4ED Center to the economy in the new normal. The
is a self-sustaining shared facility that Skills Window PH is composed of six
serves as a conduit for the efficient main components: social community,
delivery of various government learning management system, job
services. Each Tech4ED Center is sourcing, data analytics, mobile
provided with access to the Tech4ED and desktop apps, and maintenance
Platform, which has various content system.
and learning materials classified
into eight segments, namely eAssist, Furthermore, we will be boosting the
eMarketPlace, eGovServices, Gender capacity of existing Tech4ED centers
and Development, eAgri, eHealth, by upgrading them into Digital
digitaljobsPH, and eEduSkills. Transformation Centers that would
become venues where Filipinos can
From 3,144 centers in June 2019, learn basic and higher-level digital
we have increased the number of skills.
established Tech4ED Centers to
4,330 nationwide, benefitting 161,310 Our investments in ICT infrastructure
registered users. will be complemented by similar
investments in other high-impact
ICT Capacity Building. To enhance the infrastructure to further enhance our
competitiveness of Filipinos in ICT, inter- and intra-island mobility and
we launched the ICT Academy, an connectivity.

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Enhancing Connectivity

As part of our efforts to pursue inclusive provinces (see Annex Table 7.1 for the list of
and sustainable economic growth, we have RoRo routes targeted to be opened by 2022).
strategically distributed infrastructure
and connectivity projects nationwide. As We are also modernizing our existing
of end-December 2019, we have spent ports and constructing new ones. As of
PhP2.93 trillion to fast-track the completion June 2020, we have virtually inaugurated
of our infrastructure projects without 14 completed port projects nationwide. We
compromising their quality. This is more expect to further spur economic activities
than a hundred percent of the PhP1.35 in other areas with the targeted completion
trillion spent during the comparable first of 22 other port projects within the year
three and a half years of the four previous (see Figure 7.1 on the map of additional RoRo
Administrations combined.194 This is a routes opened and previously inaugurated
testament to our dedication in ensuring port projects; and Annex Table 7.2 for ongoing
mobility and connectivity for all Filipinos. projects targeted to be completed within 2020).

Boosting Maritime Connectivity195 Improving Air Connectivity196

Across regions and islands, farmers Our old and dilapidated airports with
and micro-entrepreneurs prefer sea incomplete facilities have caused
transport for their products because of inconvenience to our fellow Filipinos and
its affordability relative to air travel. the tourists visiting our country. I have
Thus, we pursued the modernization of personally witnessed these hardships
existing seaports, construction of new – from flight delays to congestion in
ones, and increasing the roll-on/roll-off terminals – which the Filipino people
(RoRo) trade routes. These are also meant do not deserve. To address these, we
to address congestion in our major ports prioritized the decongestion of our
and ensure that remote areas would have airports, especially the NAIA, through
access to maritime transport. the construction of new airports and the
improvement of existing ones (see Figure
Recognizing the importance of the 7.2 for select completed and ongoing airport
RoRo service to our small Filipino projects; and Annex Table 7.3 for other select
entrepreneurs, we opened 20 ongoing projects).
additional maritime trade routes on
top of the existing 120. These increased To decongest major airports such as
the country’s total maritime trade routes the NAIA, we installed technologies
to 140 as of May 2019. These routes now to capacitate them to accommodate
cater to 290 ships and 7.1 million vehicles night flights. This means that domestic
yearly. We target to open 24 additional flights departing from the NAIA do not
trade routes within my term to cover more have to be crammed during daytime,

194 DBM, July 17, 2020.

195 DOTr, July 16, 2020; and OPAFPP, July 20, 2020.
196 DOTr, July 16, 2020; and OPAFPP, July 20, 2020.

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Figure 7.1 RoRo Routes Opened and Port Projects

Previously Inaugurated

RORO ROUTES OPENED COMPLETED PORT PROJECTS

FROM 2016 TO MAY 2019 INAUGURATED VIRTUALLY AS OF JUNE 2020

ADDITIONAL ROUTES OPENED

1. Maasin, Southern Leyte – Ubay, Bohol
2. Lucena City – Corcuera – Odiongan, Romblon –
Port of Currimao in Ilocos Caticlan, Aklan
Norte 3. Lucena City – Masbate City – Calbayog,
Northern Samar
4. Real, Quezon – Polillo Island, Quezon
5. Surigao – Dapa, Surigao del Norte
6. Bulan, Sorsogon – San Jacinto, Masbate
7. Atimonan, Quezon – Alabat, Quezon
8. Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro – Caticlan, Aklan
9. Lagundi, Masbate – Masbate City
10. Jagna, Bohol – Balbagon, Camiguin – Opol,
Misamis Oriental
11. Ajuy, Iloilo – Victorias, Negros Occidental
12. Hindang, Leyte – Mandaue, Cebu
13. Punta Engano, Cebu – Olango Island, Cebu
14. Bogo, Cebu – Palompon, Leyte
15. Dangay, Oriental Mindoro – Poctoy, Romblon
16. Iloilo River Wharf – Banago, Bacolod
17. Roxas, Mindoro – Busuanga, Aklan
18. Manila – Tilik, Occidental Mindoro
19. Kalibo, Aklan – Boracay, Aklan
20. Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte – Oslob,
Cebu

Port of Cawit in Boac,

Marinduque

Port of Mansalay
in Oriental Mindoro
Port of Borac in Coron,
Palawan

Port of San Fernando in Port of Estancia in Iloilo

El Nido, Palawan

Two separate projects for

the Iloilo Commercial Port
Complex Port of Jagna in Bohol
Port of Tagbilaran in Bohol

Port of Masao in
Agusan del Norte

Port of Iligan in Iligan City,

Port of Ozamiz in Misamis Lanao Del Norte
Occidental

Port of Malalag in Davao

Del Sur

Source: DOTr

Source: DILG
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Figure 7.2 Select Completed and Ongoing Airport Projects

Sangley New passenger

Airport terminal
building in the
• Inaugurated in Clark
February 2020
• Features a 750- International
sq m-passenger Airport
terminal building
• Caters to commercial • Completed in July 2020
cargo operations and general • Accommodates additional eight million
aviation passengers

160 12 million
passengers can be accomodated passengers can be
at any given time accommodated annually

Bicol International Airport

• Status: 66.61% constructed as of June 2020
• Target completion date: December 2020

2passengers
million can be accommodated annually

Source: DOTr

thereby reducing flight delays. From (OTP) of our airlines. The Air Carriers’
only 14 in 2016, we have increased the Association of the Philippines reported an
number of airports that are capable of increase in OTP of airline carriers in NAIA
accommodating night flights to 22 as from 50 percent in July 2016 to 78 percent
of July 2020. By 2022, we aim to night-rate as of September 2019. By June 2022, we
37 airports in the country (see Figure 7.3 aim to increase our OTP rating to 85 to 90
and Annex Table 7.4). percent.

Our ongoing renovation of runways and Expanding Land Connectivity197

taxiways and enhancement of the air
navigation system of the NAIA, coupled The daily difficulties faced by the riding
with our close coordination with our public concerns me. It pains me that our
private partners have resulted in the steady people need to leave their homes at dawn
improvement of the on-time performance just to get to their workplace on time. To

197 DPWH, July 16, 2020; DOTr, July 16, 2020; and OPAFPP, July 20, 2020.

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Figure 7.3 Night-rating of Airports in the Philippines

LAOAG INTL TUGUEGARAO

AIRPORT AIRPORT

CAUAYAN LEGEND:
AIRPORT

NIGHT-RATED
AIRPORT

TO BE
NIGHT-RATED
CLARK INTL AIRPORT BY 2022

SUBIC BAY
INTL AIRPORT
NINOY AQUINO
INTL AIRPORT
SANGLEY
AIRPORT

NAGA AIRPORT
VIRAC AIRPORT
BICOL INTL LEGAZPI
AIRPORT AIRPORT

CATICLAN
SAN JOSE
AIRPORT CALBAYOG CATBALOGAN-BURI
AIRPORT ROXAS
AIRPORT AIRPORT AIRPORT
TACLOBAN
KALIBO INTL ORMOC AIRPORT
AIRPORT BACOLOD AIRPORT
SILAY
AIRPORT
ANTIQUE
SAN VICENTE AIRPORT ILOILO INTL
AIRPORT MACTAN CEBU
AIRPORT INTL AIRPORT

PUERTO PRINCESA BOHOL-PANGLAO BUTUAN

DUMAGUETE INTL AIRPORT AIRPORT
INTL AIRPORT
AIRPORT

DIPOLOG
LAGUINDINGAN
AIRPORT
AIRPORT
OZAMIZ
AIRPORT
PAGADIAN
AIRPORT

ZAMBOANGA
INTL AIRPORT COTABATO DAVAO INTL
AIRPORT AIRPORT

GENERAL SANTOS
INTL AIRPORT
SANGA SANGA

Source: DOTr
AIRPORT

ease the daily suffering of motorists, we Luzon Spine Expressway Network (LSEN).
110
prioritized the continuous expansion The government is fast-tracking the
and upgrading of strategic roads and completion of around 900-km of high
expressways. Thus, we pursued the standard highways and expressways that
construction and development of 23,657 will form part of the LSEN (see Figure 7.4
km of roads and 4,959 bridges from July for ongoing projects under the LSEN; and
2016 to May 2020. Annex Table 7.5 for other proposed projects).

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These will reduce travel time from link island provinces via land travel.
Metro Manila to La Union from six These bridges offer an alternative,
hours and 55 minutes to three hours more affordable, and more efficient
and 10 minutes. Moreover, travel time mode of transportation to the public
from Ilocos to Bicol will be reduced (see Annex Table 7.6 for Proposed Inter-
from 19 hours and 40 minutes to eight Island Linkage Projects).
hours and 15 minutes.
Among these projects is the Panguil
Under the LSEN, we completed the Bay Bridge. In November 2018, we
NAIA Expressway Phase II in April held the groundbreaking of this 3.1-
2017; the North Luzon Expressway km bridge that will connect the City
(NLEX) Harbor Link, Segment 10 of Tangub in Misamis Occidental to
in March 2019; Arterial (Plaridel) the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao
By-Pass Road, Phase II in 2018; del Norte. Once completed in 2023, it
NLEX Harbor Link, C3-R10 Section will only take seven minutes to reach
in June 2020; and the last segment Tangub City from Tubod using the
of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union bridge compared to the 2.5 hours it
Expressway (TPLEX) in July 2020 would take using the 102-km route
(see Figure 7.5 for further details on the via the Tubod-Kapatagan-Molave-
newly constructed TPLEX). Tangub road. In addition, travel
time between Ozamiz City, Misamis
Continued Implementation of Inter-island Occidental and Mukas, Kolambugan,
Linkage Projects. We also envisioned Lanao Del Norte will be reduced from
the ease of travel between islands 2.5 hours using RoRo operations to 20
through the construction of 10 short- minutes using the Panguil Bay Bridge.
and long-span bridges, which would This will benefit 9,226 motorists daily.

Figure 7.4 Select Ongoing Projects under the LSEN

CENTRAL LUZON LINK

EXPRESSWAY, PHASE I,
TARLAC-CABANATUAN,
NUEVA ECIJA
To reduce travel time between
Tarlac City and Cabanatuan City
from
70 minutes
to20 minutes
benefitting

11,200
motorists daily
STATUS*: 85%
COMPLETION: 2021

*As of June 2020

Source and Photo Credit: DPWH

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Figure 7.4 Select Ongoing Projects under the LSEN

ARTERIAL (PLARIDEL) BY-
PASS ROAD, PHASE III
To reduce average travel time
between Burol, Balagtas
and Maasim, San Rafael in
Bulacan from
69 minutes
to 24 minutes
benefitting

15,000
motorists daily
STATUS*: 88%
COMPLETION: 2023

METRO MANILA SKYWAY

STAGE 3
To reduce travel time from
Buendia to Balintawak from

2 hours
to 15-20
minutes
STATUS*: 83%
COMPLETION: 2020

CAVITE-LAGUNA
EXPRESSWAY
To reduce travel time between
CAVITEX and SLEX from

to 1.5 hours
45 minutes
STATUS*: 73% OF LAGUNA SEGMENT
CONSTRUCTED
COMPLETION: 2022

CAMARINES SUR
EXPRESSWAY (CAMARINES
SUR HIGH SPEED HIGHWAY)

To reduce travel time between San

Fernando and Pili from

51minutes
to 11 minutes
STATUS*: 9%
COMPLETION: 2022
*As of June 2020
Source and Photo Credit: DPWH

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Figure 7.5 Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX)

TARLAC-PANGASINAN-LA
UNION EXPRESSWAY
89.21-km
expressway connecting Tarlac City
and Rosario, La Union
Reduced travel time between both
areas from
3.5 hours
to 1 hour
benefitting
20,000
motorists daily
COMPLETED: JULY 2020
Source and Photo Credit: DPWH
Railways. Our train commuters replacement by September 2020, which
continue to suffer from long queues and would cut down the waiting time
technical difficulties, which resulted between trains to only 3.5 minutes.
in train stoppages and unloading of
passengers. We are addressing the Our continuous improvement works
problems in our railway system and reduced unloading incidents from 586
recognize that more needs to be done in 2016 to 57 in 2018; and to only 28
urgently. We are implementing several in 2019. I hope that we can further
initiatives, in coordination with our decrease the delays and critical
private partners, to improve our train incidents with our ongoing efforts
system and better cater to the needs of to enhance the performance of our
our commuters, providing them with railway systems, which include the
affordable, accessible, and comfortable deployment of additional trains in the
alternative transportation (see Annex coming years (see Table 7.1).
Table 7.7 for the list of ongoing railway
projects). We are also pursuing the expansion
of our train services through the
In June 2020, we deployed four opening of the Philippine National
additional train sets, increasing the Railways (PNR) North (Manila–
total number of the MRT-3 operating Clark, Pampanga), South Commuter
train sets from 15 to 19. We also (Manila– Calamba, Laguna), and
made significant progress on the South Long Haul (Manila–Bicol) to
rail replacement of the MRT-3 to cover provinces outside Metro Manila.
increase the speed of our trains from Partial operations covering these areas
30 kilometers per hour (kph) to 40 shall start by 2022.
kph. These will reduce your waiting
time between trains from nine to six Easing Mobility 198
minutes. At the end of the year, we
hope to further increase train speed to Traffic congestion is a persistent daily
60 kph through the completion of rail problem for our people. According to

198 DPWH, July 16, 2020; MMDA, July 17, 2020; OPAFPP, July 20, 2020.

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Table 7.1 Additional Train Sets for Deployment

No. of Additional
Line Train Sets
Status

30 four-car • 12 train sets will be delivered in June 2021.

LRT-1
train sets • Additional train sets will be deployed per month until June 2022.

14 four-car • Seven train sets will be delivered in the second quarter of 2023.
LRT-2
train sets • Remaining seven train sets in the first quarter of 2024

12 four-car • Ongoing coordination with Sumitomo and Japan International

MRT-3
train sets Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the deployment of Dalian train sets

• Six train sets were delivered and operationalized.

PNR Nine train sets
• Three train sets will be delivered by August 2020.
Source: DOTr

the 2019 Traffic Index of TomTom, 199 a Intensified enforcement of traffic

Filipino wastes an average of 10 days regulations. We intensified our traffic
and 17 hours per year due to traffic. management operations to facilitate
This deeply concerns me as Filipinos traffic flow and ensure safety of road
are seemingly robbed of their quality users. The Inter-Agency Council
time for work, livelihood, and their for Traffic (i-ACT) has impounded
family. Moreover, the JICA projected colorum and apprehended out-of-line
that economic losses due to traffic vehicles in Metro Manila. Through the
would rise to PhP5.4 billion a day by Metropolitan Manila Development
2035 if interventions were not made. In Authority (MMDA), we implemented
view of this, I have ordered the agencies the No Contact Traffic Apprehension
responsible for traffic management Policy; issued tickets on illegally
and infrastructure development to parked vehicles; traffic violators;
undertake interventions to reduce towed illegally parked vehicles; and
traffic congestion. removed illegal vendors along roads
and streets in Metro Manila (see Table
7.2 for accomplishments).

Table 7.2 Efforts to Ease Traffic Congestion in Metro Manila

2016 2020
Particulars (Jul-Dec) 2017 2018 2019 (Jan-June) Total
Colorum vehicles impound-
215 813 933 654 215 2,830
ed
Traffic violation tickets
10,312 26,110 62,497 475,896 124,351 699,166
issued
Illegally parked vehicles
5,211 19,126 21,884 1,872 649 48,742
towed
Illegal vendors removed 7,616 36,621 26,270 6, 215 3,255 79,977

Source: MMDA
199 An international company focusing on location technology, e.g., global positioning system, and global traffic situation.

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Clearing of roads nationwide. In my State

of the Nation Address in July 2019, I
ordered all LGUs to recover and clear
public roads that were being used
for private purposes such as parking
spaces. Through the help of our LGUs,
we have cleared a total of 402,460
obstructions, i.e., illegally parked
vehicles, from public roads nationwide
to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and
seamless travel of responders and relief
operations in times of disasters. As of
DPWH Secretary Mark Villar inspects the
December 2019, we issued show-cause Skyway Stage 3, an 18.83-kilometer elevated
orders to 101 non-compliant LGUs, expressway traversing Metro Manila to
decongest traffic in EDSA and other major roads
of which, 15 were administratively in the region.
charged in December 2019. I am strongly Photo Credit: DPWH
urging the LGUs to be responsible in
ensuring that our roads are clear to help motorists to reach their destinations safely
ease the mobility of our countrymen, in a shorter period of time (see Figure 7.6 for
particularly in times of disasters. Our ongoing bridge construction projects in Metro
government is serious on this. Manila; and Annex Table 7.8 for proposed
bridges in Metro Manila).
Construction of bridges in Metro Manila.
We are also pursuing bridge projects Easing Mobility in Davao and Cebu Cities.
to open more routes to reduce travel In Cebu and Davao Cities, two of the
time and traffic in major roads in country’s major cities outside of Metro
Metro Manila, especially EDSA. Within Manila, we are implementing high-impact
my Administration, we started the projects to ease mobility (see Table 7.3).
construction of bridges to allow our

Table 7.3 Proposed Projects to Ease Congestion in Metro Cebu and Metro Davao
Status (as of June 2020)
Projects Description and Target Completion

• Will reduce travel time between Danao City Status: 28.03% of Segment 3:
Metro Cebu and Naga City, Cebu from three hours to one Naga-Minglanilla constructed
Expressway hour and 10 minutes Completion: 2022 (Segment 3)

• Will reduce travel time between Toril and

Davao City Poblacion in Davao City from 45 minutes to Status: 29% constructed
Coastal Road 15 minutes
• Alternative to the already congested Davao- Completion: 2023
Cotabato road
Source: DPWH

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Figure 7.6 Bridges to Decongest EDSA

BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY-

ORTIGAS CENTER LINK
PROJECT
Will reduce traffic in the
Guadalupe Bridge and Bagong
Ilog Bridge

STATUS*: 56% CONSTRUCTED

COMPLETION: AUG 2021

ESTRELLA-PANTALEON
BRIDGE

To serve as an alternative
route between Makati and
Mandaluyong

STATUS*: 55% CONSTRUCTED

COMPLETION: 2021

BINONDO-INTRAMUROS
BRIDGE

To serve as an alternative route

crossing Pasig River

STATUS: 35% CONSTRUCTED

COMPLETION: 2021

*As of June 2020

Source and Photo Credit: DPWH

Enhancing Inclusive and

Responsive Regional Growth
Most, if not all, Filipinos desire sustainable settlements, generate jobs,
to find good-paying jobs in the and integrate and enhance our efforts
metropolis to provide a comfortable to support sustained and improved
life for their families. While it is growth in the countryside.
true that employment opportunities
and essential goods and services Providing Quality Settlements
are more accessible in the cities, outside Metro Manila 200

we are correcting this imbalance

by harnessing the potential of the Based on the study conducted by the
regions in bringing about better then HUDCC and Philippine Statistical
opportunities. Our goal is to create Research and Training Institute in
200 DHSUD, July 15, 2020; and DOST, July 17, 2020.

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2017, the number of informal settler

families (ISFs) in Metro Manila would
reach 339,397 by 2022. Thus, there
is an urgent need to relocate them
to safe, sustainable, and resilient
communities while upholding their
dignity and well-being. Through my
Administration’s flagship BALAI
program, we will create townships and
build not just houses but communities
with basic facilities such as schools,
public markets, transport terminals,
hospitals, police stations, business
centers, and recreational facilities, in
partnership with the LGUs and other
stakeholders.

Through our partnership with Benjamin Village 8 in San Jose del Monte City,
LGUs, we have provided training Bulacan.
Photo Credit: DHSUD
and technical assistance to LGUs
in the formulation, updating, and The DOST, together with the UP
implementation of Comprehensive Planning and Development Research
Land Use Plans (CLUPs) and zoning Foundation, Inc. (UP-PLANADES), is
ordinances, among others (see Table promoting the adoption of the DOST-
7.4). This is to strengthen their UP-PLANADES New Growth Center
capacity to implement inclusive and Development Model. It is a template for
sustainable resettlement projects by planning on settlements development;
identifying areas for urban growth and identification of potential new growth
planned areas for human settlements. areas in the country; and projection
of housing requirements in terms of
the total housing demand, spatial
Table 7.4 Number of Training distribution, and financing needs.
and Assistance Provided to Select LGUs have been briefed on
LGUs in CLUP Formulation and the development model and shall be
Implementation trained online on its use on July 30,
Annual Actual 2020.
Year
Target Accomplishments
Propelling Regional Development
2016 1,000 1,947 for Sustained Employment Creation
2017 1,000 2,856
We shall facilitate the creation of
2018 1,000 1,909 sustainable jobs in the countryside
to make migration to urban areas
2019 1,000 2,142
a preference rather than a need. To
Source: DHSUD move this agenda forward, we are
undertaking the following:

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Agricultural and Value Chain In May 2019, we also launched the

Development. 201 The COVID-19 Rural Agro-Enterprise Partnership for
pandemic has clearly demonstrated the Inclusive Development and Growth
importance of agriculture. Aside from (RAPID Growth) Project with the
supplying our food requirements, most support of the International Fund for
of our MSMEs are highly dependent Agricultural Development (IFAD). This
on the raw materials provided by initiative aims to support and increase
agriculture to keep their operations the income of 78,000 farmers and 1,050
running. farmers’ organizations and MSMEs
engaged in cocoa, coffee, processed
With agriculture being the main fruits and nuts, and coconut industries.
employment provider in rural areas,
it behooves upon the government to Interventions will include direct
create more prospects and improve assistance to enterprises such as provision
the well-being of farmers. Thus, we of conditional matching grants and
shall sustain efforts to modernize and rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads;
develop the agricultural sector by and technical assistance to financial service
providing financial support and other providers. It is being implemented in 20
assistance to farmers, constructing provinces from Regions VIII to CARAGA
farm-to-market roads, and improving (see Figure 7.7). These provinces have been
irrigation systems, among others (see selected due to its high poverty incidence
Chapter 4 for the efforts to develop the and growth potential in selected priority
agricultural sector). agriculture chains.

Figure 7.7 RAPID Growth Project Location Map

REGION VIII
NORTHERN SAMAR
LEYTE

SOUTHERN LEYTE

REGION XIII

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

AGUSAN DEL SUR

SURIGAO DEL SUR

REGION X
MISAMIS ORIENTAL
REGION IX
ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE BUKIDNON
LANAO DEL NORTE
ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY
REGION XI
DAVAO ORIENTAL

ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

REGION XII
DAVAO DE ORO
SARANGANI
DAVAO DEL NORTE
NORTH COTABATO
DAVAO OCCIDENTAL
SULTAN KUDARAT
Source: DTI
DAVAO DEL SUR

201 DTI, July 16, 2020; and IFAD, RAPID Growth Project Report, July 10, 2017.

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Revival of the Tourism Industry.202 The

tourism industry is vital to our
economy. In 2019, the industry
contributed 12.7 percent to the
country’s GDP and generated 5.71
million jobs or 13.5 percent of the
country’s total employment. It breaks
my heart to see how an industry that
has consistently been a source of
national pride and livelihood is among
the hardest hit by the pandemic.

To revive the industry, the DOT and

DTI are encouraging local travels with
the gradual easing of restrictions on
movement and reopening of tourist
destinations, in close coordination with
the LGUs. However, we need to balance
our desire for fun and recreation with the
conscious effort to take care of our health
and that of others.
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat visits
Thus, as we slowly open our local borders, El Nido, Palawan (top photo) and Boracay Island
with DENR Secretary Cimatu (bottom photo) to
the DOT, together with other concerned inspect the readiness of the two popular tourist
agencies, LGUs, and stakeholders, will destinations to reopen to visitors.
Photo Credit: DOT and PCOO
strictly enforce and integrate measures
to ensure the safety of our travelers,
workers, and communities. On June 18,
2020, the Board of Investments (BOI)
approved the proposed amendments to Establishment of New Special Economic
the Modernization Policy and Specific Zones.203 In June 2019, I issued AO no.
Guidelines on Tourism under the 2017 18 to expedite the development of special
Investment Priorities Plan. Effective June economic zones in rural areas and spur
27, 2020, tax incentives have become economic growth in the countryside.
available for tourism enterprises that will Since 2016, 73 new ecozones were
modernize and upgrade their facilities in proclaimed, bringing the total number of
terms of safety and health standards in economic zones to 408. Of this number,
the new normal. The tax relief includes 222 were developed outside Metro
income tax holiday for three years Manila, employing about 1.60 million
and duty-free importation of capital workers.
equipment.

202 DTI, July 16, 2020; and DOT, July 20, 2020.
203 DTI, July 16, 2020; and AO no. 18, s. 2019.

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Implementing the Balik Probinsya, We also created the BP2 Council that
Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Program would ensure the attainment of the policy
objectives of the BP2 Program Framework,
To promote balanced urban and rural which is divided into four key areas:
development, ensure rural prosperity, and empowerment of local industries; food
complement initiatives towards attaining security and agricultural productivity;
resilient and sustainable communities in social welfare, health, and development;
the next normal, I issued in May 2020 EO and infrastructure development (see
no. 114,204 which institutionalized the BP2 Figures 7.9 and 7.10).
Program.

Figure 7.9 BP2 Program Framework Key Areas and Objectives

EMPOWERMENT OF FOOD SECURITY AND

LOCAL INDUSTRIES AGRICULTURAL
• Sustainable program for
PRODUCTIVITY
public sector investment and
private sector participation; • Facilitation of innovations and
• Provision of support to technologies for agricultural
MSMEs for the sector’s production;
continued growth; and • Strengthening of infrastructure
• Rationalization of fiscal incentives and financial support to agricultural
to develop forward and backward industries; and
linkages and export-and domestic-oriented • Pursuit of measures to take advantage of economies
enterprises; of scale promotion of value chain development, and
• Provision of access to markets and a fully improvement of the quality of life of farmers.
integrated value chain; and
• Transfer of medium and large businesses to
provincial economic hubs.

SOCIAL WELFARE, INFRASTRUCTURE

HEALTH, AND DEVELOPMENT
EMPLOYMENT
• Development of transport
• Provision of comprehensive and communications, power
assistance packages to resources, and irrigation
encourage voluntary movement facilities;
to home provinces; • Completion of existing and future
• Upgrading of local health facilities railway projects; and
and local health capacities to address the • Creation and improvement of transport
health needs of the community; terminals and construction of public markets in
• Establishment of education institutions and technical communities.
and vocational schools in strategic rural areas, and
linking them to industries; and
• Creation of employment opportunities through
various support programs and assistance packages.

Source: EO no. 114, s. 2020

204 EO no. 114, s. 2019 entitled: “Institutionalizing the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program as a Pillar of Balanced Regional Development, Creating a
Council Therefor, and for Other Purposes,” signed on May 6, 2020.

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Figure 7.10 Progress Points for the Implementation of Pipeline

or Existing Programs, Projects, or Activities (PPAs) under BP2

MEDIUM-TERM
SHORT-TERM (Existing or new PPAs
(Pipeline or existing PPAs for funding, which can be LONG-TERM
with available funding or (PPAs that require longer time
appropriations, and can be implemented when community horizons to implement)
readily implemented) quarantine restrictions have
been lifted)
Identification of existing
Transportation, relocation, and special economic zones, and Decentralization of powers and
transitory support; development of MSME-oriented seat of governance;
industries;
Priority legislation on rationalized
Livelihood and employment
Livelihood and employment and results-based tax incentives
opportunities suitable to rural
packages; for agriculture or tourism
development;
industries, and the NaLUA; and
Creation of new urban centers
Strengthening and prioritizing
Agri-based support services; outside of the NCR and existing
the National Spatial Strategy;
major urban centers
Integration of institutional
assistance, such as progression
of formal education, improved
Educational programs, e.g.,
healthcare services and medical
internet-based learning;
facilities, maintenance and
promotion of peace, order, and
security; and
Fiscal incentives and transition
assistance for MSMEs, including Establishment of new special
tax incentives and fast-tracked economic zones in Visayas and
processing of licenses and Mindanao, including BARMM
permits; and

Other forms of aid

Source: EO no. 114, s. 2020

While I recognize that the program’s With the program’s long-term plans on
framework can still be enriched various investments in infrastructure,
by the learnings from its early agriculture, business, transportation
implementation, I look forward and access to a responsive healthcare
to the day when it can be fully system, a whole-of-nation approach
institutionalized. We need to change is imperative to ensure its successful
mindsets and paradigms and think of implementation. I hope that
the greater good for our country and Congress will ensure its sustained
the future generation of Filipinos. implementation in the long-term
through the passage of relevant
legislation.

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Way Forward: Towards an Equitable and

Sustainable Development for All
I stand by my commitment to aggressively help disperse economic and investment
pursue the equitable growth of our regions. activities to the countryside through
the proper planning of industrial zones,
Moving forward, we will ensure the communities, environmental conservation,
continued implementation of connectivity disaster resiliency, health and pandemic
and mobility infrastructure. Against all management, and other imperatives of
odds, we are exerting our utmost effort sustainable and resilient development.
to fulfill our commitment to realize
high-impact infrastructure projects Economic activity follows where
towards increased connectivity and government centers are. Therefore, having
enhanced mobility. We shall not waver regional government centers is a way
on this commitment despite the shocks of reducing risks in the metropolis, as it
we encountered along the way. In the would disperse the population towards
coming years and even beyond my the regions. In a rapidly volatile, uncertain,
Administration, we are anticipating more complex, and ambiguous world, the
economic opportunities in all corners of creation of super-regional centers and
our country as these projects progress to consequently transferring the seat of the
completion. These projects shall not only be national government to a more resilient
our springboard to reach greater economic site would not only ensure the survival
development, but shall also serve as means and continuity of the national government
to disperse economic benefits to all corners in the event of a major disaster but also
of the country while at the same time guarantee the uninterrupted delivery
pushing sustainability in urban centers, of public services to the people. In view
particularly Metro Manila, through of this, we aim to transform the present
decongestion. These projects are also Metro Manila-centric governance model,
crucial in bolstering our ability to mitigate which is highly vulnerable to disruptions
the impact of disasters and ensuring a caused by natural hazards and pandemics,
more resilient and safer Philippines. into a resilient 21st century bureaucracy
through the establishment of redundant
Environmental protection and the government centers in more resilient
responsible extraction, utilization, and sites across the archipelago. Doing so will
equitable distribution of natural resources greatly enhance the stability of governance
remain among my top non-negotiables. and the continuity of public services.
In this regard, I reiterate the urgent need
for the passage of the National Land Use Moving forward, we shall bring
Act (NaLUA) to institutionalize a national development to every corner of our nation
land use policy that would provide a to ensure that no one gets left behind in
science-based approach to the rational our pursuit of a comfortable life for all
allocation, development, and management Filipinos.
of the country’s land resources. It would

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“Yes, things will not be

easy, [but] we Filipinos are
tough. Mas malakas
ang Pilipino sa anumang
hamon. Now, we all must
do what we can, and must,
para sa ating bayan.”

The President’s statement, Talk

to the People on COVID-19,
March 24, 2020

“A Filipino is like a mythological bamboo who sways valiantly with the winds of misfortune only
to rise unscathed when the tempest is over to meet again the warmth of the morning sun.”
-Dr. Felipe Landa Jocano (1930-2013), an anthropologist and educator from the University of the
Philippines. Photo Credit: DOST

Ensuring the Filipino’s

Chapter Well-being and Resiliency

8 We shall face the next normal fully aware that disease

outbreaks such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate
change are intricately intertwined. According to
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, COVID-19
emanated from the wild and that its occurrence is a
manifestation that human health relates to the natural
world.205 This clearly reaffirms a resounding lesson that
our treatment of mother nature inevitably comes back to
us.

As the COVID-19 pandemic wrought immense global

havoc, it has emphasized the critical importance of
strengthening our healthcare system and according top
priority to environmental protection, sustainability, and
resilience. We need to move towards this direction in
unison to uphold and protect the national well-being.

205 UN, May 19, 2020.

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Strengthening the Health Sector

By the end of my term, I want the health system that makes Filipinos feel
country to achieve meaningful health respected, valued, and empowered.
outcomes. These include longer life Our experience with the COVID-19
expectancy, lower maternal and infant pandemic has underscored the urgent
mortality, and decreased prevalence need to strengthen our country’s
of stunting among children, especially healthcare system and ensure that
among the poorest sector of the every Filipino’s health is protected.
society. We will have a responsive

Improvements in the Philippine Healthcare System

Prioritizing the Health Sector the DOH received PhP48.23 billion to

Budget206 cover the funding requirements for
the efficient implementation of RA no.
Public health has always been among 11469 or Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,
my top priorities. In addition to the 2020 specifically to manage the COVID-19
health sector budget (see Figure 8.1), pandemic.

Figure 8.1 Health Sector Budget (2016 to 2020)

200
PhP185.5
PhP177.74 billion
PhP170.38 billion
150 billion
PhP160.44
billion
PhP125.23
100 billion

50

0
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
YEAR

206 DOH, July 17, 2020, DBM, July 19, 2020, and NEDA, July 14, 2020.

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For FY 2021, the health sector budget sustain our efforts to achieve the
shall again be prioritized to enable health outcomes set out in the National
our healthcare system to effectively Objectives for Health 2017-2022 (see
address the COVID-19 pandemic and Table 8.1). These are important in
similar disease outbreaks. Included ensuring the holistic advancement of
in the budget are programs that will public health.

Table 8.1 Health Outcomes in the

National Objectives for Health (2017-2022)

Current 2022
Health Outcomes Indicator Baseline
Data Target

70 71
Average life expectancy in years 72
(2010-2015) (2015-2020)

Maternal mortality ratio per 100,000 111 108 To be

live births (2015) (2018) determined

Infant mortality rate per 100,000 live 23 21

15
births (2013) (2017)

Premature mortality attributed to

cardiovascular diseases, cancer, 466 459
367
diabetes, and chronic respiratory (2015) (2016)
diseases per 1,000,000 population

Tuberculosis incidence per 100,000 434 554

510
population (2016) (2018)

Prevalence of stunting among 33.4 30.3

21.4
under-five children in percentage (2015) (2018)

Source: DOH

Improving Healthcare Service support the LGUs in building their

Delivery capacity to deliver health services. We
shall provide both pharmacological and
To improve the healthcare delivery non-pharmacological interventions
system, we shall intensify the hiring to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
and deployment of human resources We shall also build the LGUs’ health
for health, upgrade health facilities and system resilience and their capacities
equipment, and maximize the use of to prepare for and respond to public
available technology. health emergencies, institutionalizing
primary care, and catalyzing the
Service Delivery. We will continue transformation of the provincial-, city-,
to strengthen the health system and and municipal-wide health systems.

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To further strengthen our capacity Use of Digital Innovation. The use of

to respond to the pandemic, the technology has provided our healthcare
proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One workers with alternative ways of
Act or Bayanihan II, allocates PhP10 delivering health services even to the
billion for the procurement of testing remotest areas and most vulnerable
kits. With the guidance of the DOH, populations in the country. We shall
the LGUs’ experiences in responding maximize the use of these to keep
to COVID-19 will help shape models up with the demands under the next
for health systems integration and normal.
improve health outcomes.
Among these innovations are the Digital
Human Resource for Health. In 2021, we Contact Tracing, which allows early
aim to increase access to healthcare detection of cases from those who may
services by continuously hiring and have been exposed to known cases; 24/7
deploying more than 20,000 health Hotline, a full-scale health information
professionals to augment the health and medical consultation platform that
workforce in the LGUs, particularly in uses various communication channels;
far-flung and geographically isolated Electronic Health Information Systems,
and disadvantaged areas. Physicians, which eased collection and submission
nurses, medical technologists, of health data and generation of
midwives, dentists, and other health critical health reports by public health
professionals will provide essential authorities; and Telemedicine, which
health services and strengthen disease enabled patients to receive health
surveillance in various areas of the services even while staying at home.
country. Our physicians, who are
graduates of select residency training Ensuring Financial Risk Protection
in DOH hospitals, will be deployed in for Filipinos207
government hospitals and provincial
or city health offices, which are in dire The passage of the UHC Act is very
need of specialty services. important to me as it ensured that
all Filipinos would have access to a
Healthcare Facilities and Equipment. comprehensive set of health services
Starting January 2021, we intend through the accredited hospitals of
to implement 4,474 projects to the PhilHealth.
establish and improve our Barangay
Health Stations, Rural Health Units, The DOH, in coordination with
Polyclinics, DOH and LGU hospitals, the PhilHealth, will pursue the
and other healthcare facilities. We implementation of the UHC Act,
shall also pursue the provision and/or including the integration of health
repair of equipment and infrastructure systems, universal access to primary care
of 2,556 Barangay Health Stations services, and strengthening population-
and Rural Health Units, and based services such as surveillance
537 LGU hospitals nationwide. systems, health promotion, and health
emergency preparedness.

207 PhilHealth, July 17, 2020.

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The UHC Act is expected to targeted to be lowered to 50 percent.

significantly lower the high out-of- In the same vein, we shall continue
pocket health expenditure, which to develop, implement, and improve
was at 53.9 percent in 2018. As one of the Case Rate Packages for COVID-19
the strategic goals set in the National and related diseases covered by the
Objectives for Health 2017-2022, PhilHealth (see Table 8.2).
out-of-pocket health expenditure is

Table 8.2 The PhilHealth’s Existing Case Rate Packages

for COVID-19 and Related Diseases

Number of
Packages Amount in PhP/Benefit Beneficiaries*
(as of July 16, 2020)
COVID-19 Community PhP22,449
12
Isolation Benefit Package (Maximum reimbursement rate per claim)
All services for testing are procured
PhP3,409 and provided by the testing 1,189
laboratory.
Test kits are donated to the testing
Benefit Package for
PhP2,077 2,829
laboratory.
Testing Test kits are donated to the
testing center; cost of running the
PhP901 laboratory and the PT-PCR machine 683
for testing is included in the facility
budget.
Mild pneumonia in the elderly or
PhP43,997 613
with comorbidities
Benefit Package for
Inpatient Care of PhP143,267 Moderate pneumonia 806
Probable and Confirmed
PhP333,519 Severe pneumonia 301
COVID-19 Cases**
PhP786,384 Critical pneumonia 138

Full Financial Risk Health workers, regardless of employment status,

Protection for Filipino confined for COVID-19 is eligible for the COVID-19
2,688***
Health Workers and benefits for inpatient case management with no co-
Patient against COVID-19 payment, whether in public or private facility

*Claims received
**No co-payment from the patient for direct healthcare service, but can have co-payments for
amenities (e.g., Suite room accommodation).
***Full financial risk protection for non-healthcare workers (before April 15, 2020 admission) and
health workers. Includes 369 healthcare workers.
Source: PhilHealth

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as identified priority areas under the

National Unified Health Research
Agenda 2017-2022. At the helm of
drug discovery and development is the
Tuklas Lunas Program that leverages
the country’s rich biodiversity and
local expertise to produce world-class
and affordable medicines for every
Filipino. This Program presently
involves 28 implementing agencies
that include HEIs and industry
partners.

Creation of a Disease Prevention

and Control Body 209
The President signs the UHC Act on
February 20, 2019 in the presence of Over the years, we have seen how
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque global health risks claimed lives and
Jr. (then Kabayan Representative), Quezon massively disrupted the growth and
Province 4 th District Representative Angelina
Tan, and a PhilHealth official. development of countries. Aside
Photo Credit: PCOO from the Severe Acute Respiratory
Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-
CoV 2), which caused the COVID-19
Investments in Health Research pandemic, various disease-causing
and Development (R&D)208 agents are highly capable of causing
disease outbreaks, including the Ebola
Alongside our health-related virus and Zika virus.
investments, we shall maximize the
power of R&D and innovation to Domestically, we are beset with
further improve our healthcare system emerging and re-emerging infectious
in the next normal. Our health R&D diseases. Despite efforts to achieve
budget in 2020 was PhP856 million the Sustainable Development Goals
and this is proposed to be increased against tuberculosis, our country has
to PhP1.11 billion in 2021. For our the fourth highest number of new
proposed 2021 health R&D budget, tuberculosis cases annually worldwide.
PhP66 million will be allocated for the We also saw the re-emergence of polio
country’s participation in the WHO’s in 2019, a disease we already eradicated
Solidarity Trial that aims to develop a 19 years ago, thereby prompting us to
vaccine against COVID-19. declare a polio outbreak in the same
year.
We shall also pursue the discovery and
development of drugs, particularly We recognize that an effective and efficient
those coming from natural sources, response to public health emergencies

208 DOST, July 20, 2020 and DBM, July 17, 2020.
209 DOH, July 16, 2020.

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Over the years, these health R&D projects resulted in life-changing and life-saving
innovations. Some of the most notable results of collaborative R&D are as follows:

• Ginhawa (ReliefVent), a portable and compact ventilator, benefiting

intensive care units, primary care units, and patients with respiratory
failure;

• RxBox, a biomedical device capable of transmitting readings through

built-in medical sensors (e.g., blood pressure monitor, electrocardiogram,
temperature, pulse oximeter, maternal tocometer, fetal heart rate
monitor) from remote sites to medical specialists in urban areas;

• Telepresence Terminals, one of the Surgical Innovation and

Biotechnology (SIBOL) COVID response projects that helped isolated
COVID-patients to remotely communicate with the healthcare workers
of the Philippine General Hospital, and with their loved ones;

• Feasibility Analysis of Syndromic Surveillance using Spatio-

Temporal Epidemiological Modeler for Early Detection of Diseases
(FASSSTER), a web and mobile-based application that can create
predictive models and visualize possible scenarios of outbreaks (e.g.,
Dengue, Typhoid Fever, Measles) at specified time periods. It recently
underwent enhancement to generate predictive models to forecast
future numbers related to the COVID-19 pandemic; and

• TanodCOVID, an SMS-based self-screening system that serves as a

companion application of FASSSTER allowing citizens to report 11
COVID-19 related symptoms to their local health authorities to help
the LGUs identify COVID-19 hotspots.

Sources: PIA & DOST

requires a whole-of-government, effectively address these health concerns.

whole-of-society, and whole-of-systems As the world becomes smaller and as
approach. I therefore urge Congress to more and more Filipinos live and work
pass a bill creating a disease prevention abroad, our exposure to global health
and control body, which shall be the risks increases. These necessitate the
primary government instrumentality creation of a body that has the authority
to design systems for forecasting, and resources to lead the country in
prevention, monitoring, and controlling combating diseases, local outbreaks, and
emerging and re-emerging communicable pandemics.
diseases and threats both of national and
international importance. This shall also The immense and far-reaching impact
ensure operational readiness for disease of pandemics like that of COVID-19
surveillance, strengthen epidemiologic has reminded us of the most primordial
reporting systems, increase staffing and yet often disregarded principle on
technical capacity, and further strengthen the primacy of life. Regrettably, the
laboratory capacity, from the national COVID-19 pandemic may not be the last.
down to the local levels. It may only be a prelude to other more
Our existing healthcare system needs severe and destructive diseases.We need
to be urgently reinvigorated for it to to prepare and bolster our healthcare

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system now for us to thrive under a are believed to have forced hundreds
better normal. With the innate resilience of fruit bats from their natural habitats
of the Filipino people, I am confident that towards fruit orchards near pig farms.
we shall emerge stronger, prevail over These led to the emergence of the
this contagion, and transform our health Nipah virus, which spilled over from
system to be able to address current and infected bats to pigs, and from pigs to
future threats to ensure the health, well- pig farmers. Over the next two years, the
being, and security of every Filipino. disease would kill more than 100 people.
This should have served as a warning.210
Disease outbreaks are widely known to
be closely linked to climate change and Given this, we shall pursue efforts to
natural disasters. In 1997, a large area of address climate change and natural
rainforest in southeast Asia was burned disasters as part of our holistic response
to make way for palm oil plantations. to ensure the well-being and resilience
Deforestation, forest fires, and drought of our countrymen.

Mitigating the Impact of Natural Hazards

Typhoon Tisoy hovering over the Philippines as captured from space by the Philippine Micro-
Satellite, Diwata 2. Typhoon Tisoy struck the country in December 2019.
Photo Credit: PHL-Microsat

The 21st Century is marked by drastic and Typhoon Belt, has an alarming global
rapid changes in the world’s climate – warming projection.
one of the reasons why natural disasters
have become increasingly catastrophic, The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical
frequent, and widespread in recent and Astronomical Services Administration
years. The Philippines, which is situated (PAGASA) projects that temperatures in
in the Pacific Ring of Fire and Pacific the country will rise by 0.9°C to 1.9°C in

210 The WWF, WHO, and the UN as cited in The Guardian UK, June 17, 2020.

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2050 and by 1.3°C to 2.5°C in 2099, (WVF). All of these define our natural
which could lead to the occurrence environment in the next normal. 211
of even stronger typhoons and more
destructive floods. Moreover, the We have improved from being the third
Greater Metro Manila Area (GMMA), riskiest country due to extreme weather
which is the country’s economic and events from 2015-2018 to the ninth
political center, is threatened by a riskiest from among 180 countries in
major earthquake due to the imminent 2019 (see Figure 8.2). This is a result
movement of the West Valley Fault of our persistent and conscious efforts

Figure 8.2 Top 10 Countries with the Highest Risk

Due to Extreme Climate Events

2
1 ANTIGUA & BARBUDA 3
VANUATU 30.80% TONGA
56.71% 29.39%
5
4 GUYANA 6
SOLOMON ISLANDS 22.87% PAPUA NEW GUINEA
29.36% 22.18%
8
7 GUATEMALA 10
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
21.68%
20.69%
9 BANGLADESH
18.78%
PHILIPPINES
20.69%
10
8
2
5 9
7 4
6
1
3

Source: World Risk Report, 2019

211 DOST, July 16, 2020.

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to reduce our exposure to natural tropical cyclones 213 that ravaged the
hazards and vulnerability from their country from July 2019 to June 2020,
impact. While this is a significant and spate of earthquakes, including those
welcome development, the cycle of that shook Mindanao, 214 and the Taal
destruction and reconstruction arising Volcano eruption in January 2020 (see
from natural disasters has pervaded, Figure 8.3).
continually claimed lives, and affected
our growth and development. 212 In these dire times, we responded to
the needs of our countrymen with
Recently, our country faced several dispatch through a whole-of-society
disasters that challenged our resilience approach. Aside from the deployment
as a nation. Among these were the 13 of personnel for Search, Rescue, and

Figure 8.3 Salient Facts on Recent Disasters

that Affected the Philippines

13 TROPICAL EARTHQUAKES TAAL VOLCANO

PARTICULARS CYCLONES JULY - DECEMBER 2019 ERUPTION
JULY 2019 - JUNE 2020 JANUARY 2020

AFFECTED
FAMILIES 1.49 million 168,856 191,952

COST OF
DAMAGES PhP11.93 PhP335.15 PhP3.41
Infrastructure and
Agriculture billion million billion

69 862 19 52 1,110 12
CASUALTIES Dead Injured Missing Dead Injured Missing -
Source: DND-OCD

212 DND-OCD, July 17, 2020.

213 These 13 tropical cyclones were: (1) Egay; (2) Falcon; (3) Hannah; (4) Ineng; (5) Jenny; (6) Marilyn; (7) Nimfa; (8) Quiel; (9) Ramon;
(10) Tisoy; (11) Ursula; (12) Ambo; and (13) Butchoy. (Source: DND-OCD, July 17, 2020).
214 Magnitude 5.4 and 5.9 earthquakes in Itbayat, Batanes on July 27, 2019; Magnitude 5.5 earthquake in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur
on July 13, 2019; Series of earthquakes (e.g., 6.6 Magnitude) in Tulunan, North Cotabato in October 2019; Magnitude 5.9
earthquake in Kadingilan, Bukidnon on November 18, 2019; and, Magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Matanao, Davao del Sur on
December 15, 2019 (Source: DND-OCD, July 17, 2020).

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Retrieval Operations, we provided Ensuring Earthquake Resiliency

over PhP700 million worth of relief of the Greater Metro Manila Area
assistance to the victims of typhoons (GMMA). 216 I issued EO no. 52 on
which hit the country since July 2019; May 8, 2018 creating the Program
various earthquakes, including those in Management Office (PMO) Earthquake
Mindanao; and the Taal Volcano eruption. Resiliency Group (ERG) to help ensure
This included food and non-food items unity of direction within government
such as hygiene and sanitation kits, prioritizing ten focus points and/or
medicines, folding beds, clothes, school lifelines for resilience (see Figure 8.4).
supplies, and, among others. To help
the poor get back on their feet while at I am pleased that the PMO-ERG has
the same time bolstering the resilience been working to help enhance the
of communities, we provided PhP1.3 preparedness of the GMMA, which is
billion worth of assistance to almost home to almost 26 million people and
half a million poor individuals living in host to about two-thirds of the nation’s
hazard-prone areas nationwide under the GDP, to the “Big One.” Consistent
Risk Resiliency Program through Cash- with my guidance to strengthen
for-Work activities.215 collaboration among government

Cabinet and other officials in action during the Cabinet-level Simulation Exercise (SIMEX):
1. ( Top left photo) From left to right - DOH Secretary Duque, DPWH Secretary Villar, Cabinet
Secretary Nograles, DFA Secretary Locsin, DND Secretary and NDRRMC Chair Lorenzana,
DND-OCD Administrator Jalad, DILG Secretary Año, DSWD Secretary Bautista, and DENR
Secretary and CCAM-DRR Cluster Chair Cimatu;
2. ( Top right photo) From left to right - MMDA Chairperson Danilo Lim, DICT Secretary Honasan,
PCOO Secretary Andanar, and DOST-PHIVOLCS Undersecretary Renato Solidum Jr.;
3. ( Bottom left photo) From left to right - Acting PMS Head Ferdinand Cui Jr., TESDA Secretary
Lapeña, and DTI Secretary Lopez; and
4. ( Bottom right photo) From left to right - DPWH Secretary Villar, Cabinet Secretary Nograles,
DFA Secretary Locsin, and DND Secretary Lorenzana.
Photo Credit: DND-OCD and PMS

215 DND-OCD, July 17, 2020.

216 DND-OCD, July 17, 2020.

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agencies for disaster response, a Cabinet-

level SIMEX was held on October 16,
2019 at the National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Council
(NDRRMC) Operations Center in Camp
Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The endeavor
was historic for the Philippines and
the ASEAN region having been the
first SIMEX involving Cabinet-level
officials as its key players. The SIMEX
focused on a magnitude 7.2 earthquake DENR Secretary and CCAM-DRR Cluster
Chair Cimatu raising a point during the
scenario generated by the WVF that is Cabinet-level SIMEX.
projected to devastate Metro Manila, Photo Credit: PMS

Figure 8.4 Ten Focus Points for Resilience

Multi-level Preparation Ten Focus Points

NATIONAL
• Massive Retrofitting of Public and WATER FOOD
Private Infrastructure
• Government and Business
Continuity Plan
• Training and Awareness Raising
SHELTER POWER

COMMUNITY
• Community Advocacy and
Mobilization
MEDICAL, HEALTH AND COMMAND, CONTROL AND
» Responders and Logistics PSYCHOSOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNICATIONS
» Emergency medical technicians
» Contingency plans
» Equipment prepositioning
» Volunteer groups
SEARCH AND RESCUE FIRE PROTECTION

HOUSEHOLD
• Individual or Family Preparedness
» Water and food
» Solar energy LAW AND ORDER
TRANSPORT AND
» Emergency bags MOBILITY

Source: EO no. 52, s. 2018

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CALABARZON (Region IV-A), and power, and security. We shall ensure

Central Luzon (Region III). The that these maps are distributed to
exercise brought out the key decision concerned National Government
points for top policy makers as well Agencies (NGAs) and the 17 LGUs
as the areas for improvement in our in the NCR. I strongly urge the LGUs
disaster resiliency planning and to understand and appreciate the
execution. importance of these maps and seriously
consider these into your respective
Further, the NDRRMC initiated the disaster preparedness and response
conduct of the Greater Metro Manila and in development planning.
Earthquake Impact Reduction Study
(GMMEIRS) to better understand the Bolstering Resiliency Initiatives. I
GMMA’s overall risk to earthquakes. acknowledge that to strengthen the
We shall pursue the conduct of the resilience of communities, Filipinos
quarterly Nationwide Simultaneous should be empowered to survive and
Earthquake Drills to keep the general swiftly bounce back after disasters.
public aware of the proper and safe Under our Evacuation Center
evacuation procedures during an Development Program, PhP7.2 billion
earthquake. was allocated from 2016 to 2019 for the
construction of 197 evacuation centers
We shall also work towards nationwide. We have completed 129
establishing redundant Government evacuation centers, while 68 evacuation
Command and Control Centers at the centers are ongoing construction. 217
New Clark City in Tarlac, Brig. Gen.
Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, and After the Taal Volcano eruption, a vast
Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro number of affected Filipinos needed
City. These centers shall carry out support to get back on their feet and
communications, warning signals, restart their lives anew in a safer
emergency transportation, evacuation, location. Thus, we shall endeavor to
rescue, health and rehabilitation, provide them with resilient housing as
public education, and other auxiliary we could not compromise their safety
services to ensure the protection and in their previous dwelling places within
welfare of the people during disasters the immediate proximity of the volcano.
and emergencies. These centers shall We have identified 2,788 internally
also ensure public service continuity displaced families as beneficiaries of
post-disaster. resilient housing units under various
projects. Our government agencies
To bolster our preparedness and have also devised the comprehensive
response during earthquakes, we have guidelines for the awarding of these
mapped the safe and open spaces (SOS) housing units. 218
and critical lifeline facilities in Metro
Manila such as medical facilities and In 2019, the government identified
those related to water, food, shelter, relocation sites and targeted the

217 DPWH, July 16, 2020.

218 DHSUD, July 17, 2020.

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construction of an initial 2,000 housing

units in the Bicol region for families
affected by Typhoon Tisoy. As part of
our efforts to provide these families with
housing units, site inspections have been
conducted to create resilient communities
in Albay.219

To prevent further harm on our people

when a disaster strikes, I have ordered the
continued construction of halfway houses
for the communities in vulnerable areas
facing the Pacific Ocean stretching from The Doppler Radar in Iloilo.
Cagayan to Northern Mindanao. These Photo Credit: DOST
halfway houses shall serve as places of
refuge in times disasters. Our agencies
the country’s total Doppler Radars to 17,
have coordinated with concerned LGUs to
HFDRs to 24, and FFWS to 13 as of June
identify suitable areas for the construction
30, 2020. These shall be augmented by the
of halfway houses and prepared the design
ongoing establishment of five FFWS River
of the halfway house.220
Centers in the river basins of Abulog,
Agusan, Mindanao, Tagoloan, and Aklan,
To help ensure that our farmers are able
and five FFWS in the river basins in Abulog,
to cope with the impact of disasters, we
Ilog-Hilabangan, Agusan, Mindanao, and
released around PhP3.5 billion worth of
Aklan.222
insurance to 2.4 million farmers covering
1.92 million hectares of rice, corn and
To improve our capability to monitor
high-value crops, non-crop agricultural
earthquakes, we continuously
assets, credit, and life term insurance.221
expanded the Philippine Seismic
Network through the commissioning of
Investments in scientific tools and capacity
additional satellite telemetered seismic
building of our disaster preparedness and
stations. From 98 seismic stations in
mitigation frontliners are vital in ensuring
2017, we now have 104 seismic stations
timely, accurate, and effective disaster
nationwide. These stations shall help
preparation and response.
us monitor small earthquakes with
magnitude less than three, which are
To help bolster our capacities to prepare
essential in predicting possible sites of
and mitigate the impacts of typhoons
bigger and damaging earthquakes. 223
and flooding, we installed additional
Doppler Radars, High Frequency Doppler
To address the lack of integrated
Radars (HFDR), and Flood Forecasting
information needed for an effective
and Warning Systems (FFWS) bringing
climate and disaster risk assessment,

219 DHSUD, July 17, 2020.

220 DHSUD, July 17, 2020.
221 CCAM-DRR Cluster, June 30, 2020.
222 DOST, July 16, 2020..
223 DOST, July 16, 2020.

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the DOST, under the leadership provided property owners, buyers,

of Secretary dela Peña and land developers, and planners real-
Undersecretary Renato Solidum Jr., time and free-of-charge hazard
developed the Geospatial Information assessment reports. Another platform
Management and Analysis Project is the GeoAnalyticsPH, which
for Hazards and Risk Assessment in can generate maps and analytics
the Philippines (GeoRiskPH). The to maximize smart and efficient
Philippine government has adopted decision- and policy-making. This
GeoRiskPH as its risk assessment application could be used in the smart
tool. It systematizes data from implementation of infrastructure
various sources into one platform projects, and development planning. 224
and provides essential tools for
disaster risk management. The Recognizing the importance of
most publicly accessed tool of the fast and seamless information
GeoRiskPH Platform is the web-based dissemination during disasters, we
HazardHunterPH application, which launched the Government Emergency
generates in a few clicks, accurate Communication System-Mobile
hazard assessment report for seismic, Operation Vehicle for Emergency
volcanic, and hydrometeorological (GECS-MOVE). GECS-MOVE is a rapid
hazards. HazardHunterPH has deployable emergency communications

Screenshot of HazardHunterPH.
Source: https://hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph/map

224 DOST, July 16, 2020.

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system that aims to provide ICT-enabled

support to disaster-stricken areas in the
country. In 2019, the Prototype MOVE
set was field tested and deployed in
Davao City. Currently, there are five
additional GECS-MOVE sets that would
be deployed in NCR, Clark, Batangas,
Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro by the end of
2020.225

Effective and responsive disaster risk

reduction and management rely heavily Sample of a deployed GECS-MOVE.
on our first responders – the LGUs. Photo Credit: DICT
That is why we prioritized the LGUs
in implementing capacity building protect and uphold the Filipino people’s
initiatives. Among these is the training to Constitutional rights to life and property.
improve the risk-informed planning and
risk vulnerability assessment covering A council type set-up is a thing of the past
207 local government field officers and no longer attuned to the demands
nationwide. This training prioritized of the next normal in the 21st Century.
those in the eastern seaboard and In times of disasters, we do not have
major river basins. Another training the luxury of time to build consensus
was on community-based disaster risk for decisions because precious Filipino
reduction and management and quality lives are at stake. We need a system
assurance system for Barangay Disaster that allows for unity of command and
Risk Reduction Management Plan. This ensures a science-based approach to
training was attended by 513 LGUs prevention, preparedness, and response.
and 168 youth leaders. These capacity Alongside this, we need an out-of-the-box
building initiatives shall help LGUs procurement system that is responsive to
maximize technology for their respective the nation’s needs in times of disasters
decision-making.226 and beyond.

Ensuring Disaster Resilience of the We need the DDR under a full-time

Whole Nation Cabinet-level official who shall have
the authority to take the lead role for
While our country has a disaster risk advancing the nation’s disaster resiliency
reduction and management system in and managing the effects of climate
place, we could still do so much better. change.
For three years now, I have been calling
for the passage of the Administration Now more than ever, we need to build a
version of the Department of Disaster Philippines with a robust foundation that
Resilience (DDR) Bill, a critical and can withstand and rise above the tempest
long overdue institutional reform to of the times. I can no longer allow natural

225 DICT, July 17, 2020.

226 CCAM-DRR Cluster, June 30, 2020.

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disasters to persistently pull down resilience needs to manifest in our

many of our countrymen to poverty, institutions and systems. Once again,
claim the lives of family members, and I strongly urge Congress to pass the
hamper our development as a nation. Administration version of the DDR Bill
We should learn from and rise above as soon as possible. This shall bolster
the disasters that ravaged the country the country’s resilience and help us
from Typhoon Ondoy in 2009; Typhoon achieve our collective aspiration and
Sendong in 2011; Typhoon Pablo in pursuits for growth and development
2012; Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013; that, in turn, shall also ensure the
Mayon Volcano eruption in 2018; well-being of the Filipinos towards a
Mindanao earthquakes in 2019; and comfortable life. Alongside our efforts
Taal Volcano eruption in January 2020. to empower communities to face, cope,
and rise above natural disasters, we
The cycle of destruction and shall also intensify efforts to address
reconstruction from natural disasters the drivers of natural disasters such as
must stop. The Filipinos’ innate environmental degradation.

Protecting the Environment and Advancing

Sustainable Development

Palawan, the best island in the world according to renowned travel publication, Travel + Leisure
in 2020.
Source and Photo Credit: DOT

resources for survival, livelihood, and

Over the years, the race among development, one significant cause
countries towards economic of natural disasters is environmental
development and prosperity has degradation, which also leads to
caused the unabated and uncontrolled less income and renders the people
extraction and consumption of vulnerable to natural disasters.
natural resources, which resulted
in environmental degradation. Environmental protection remains
While many of our people depend among my top non-negotiables. As
heavily on the country’s natural mere stewards of the environment, it

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behooves upon us to safeguard and To sustain the Island’s rehabilitation

ultilize it responsibly, as this will towards a productive, inclusive, and
ultimately redound to protecting and climate-resilient economy, I issued EO
ensuring the well-being of the greatest no. 115, s. 2020, extending the term of
number of Filipinos today and in the the BIATF. The extension allowed the
future. completion of critical projects under
the Boracay Action Plan that shall
further cement Boracay Island’s footing
Continued Rehabilitation of in the global tourism industry, while
Boracay Island 227 also safeguarding the environment and
promoting the well-being of the people,
In 2018, I issued Proclamation no. 475 particularly the Island’s inhabitants.
declaring a State of Calamity in Boracay
Island due to environmental degredation, As a more durable reform to ensure
which was caused by accumulated neglect that future generations will enjoy the
and greed over the years. The Island’s grandeur of Boracay Island, I proposed
continued decay had posed serious to Congress the creation of a Boracay
threats to the health of its residents, Island Development Authority (BIDA).
The BIDA shall continuously manage
workers, and tourists. This compelled me
the rehabilitation and promote the
to close the Island for six months from sustainable development of Boracay
April 26 to October 25, 2018 to make way Island. Ultimately, its task is to ensure
for its much-needed rehabilitation. that the gains realized from the
rehabilitation are continued towards
Two years after its closure, Boracay Island the development of the island.
has epitomized the Administration’s
unwavering resolve and political will Pursued Manila Bay
to safeguard the environment. We have Rehabilitation 228
been witnesses to the remarkable
reemergence of the Island from being a The Supreme Court issued a mandamus
cesspool to one of the top, if not the top, in 2008 compelling the government to
tourist destinations in the world that all clean up, rehabilitate, and preserve
Filipinos can be truly proud of. Manila Bay, and restore and maintain
its waters to make it fit for swimming,
As a result of the concerted efforts of skin-diving, and other forms of contact
the government through the Boracay recreation. After two administrations,
Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF), in the mandamus was seemingly ignored
cooperation with the private sector and as evidenced by the hazardous levels of
the citizens, we were able to implement pollutants and the piles of household
various high-impact developmental and industrial waste in the Bay and its
initiatives that helped improve the tributaries.
capacity of Boracay Island and its people
for the influx of local and foreign tourists Our Administration acted on the
alike (see Figure 8.5). mandamus and declared the start of
the Manila Bay Rehabilitation at the

227 DENR, July 17, 2020.

228 DENR, July 17, 2020.

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Baywalk in Manila on January 27, 2019

where over 10,000 people from various
sectors participated, indicating an Figure 8.5 Accomplishments under
outpouring of public support. the Boracay Island Rehabilitation
After more than two years, our efforts
resulted in the improvement of the
water quality of the Bay (see Figure 8.6). Boracay Island Rehabilitation and
Development Initiatives
To bring our waters back to life, a
massive clean-up of rivers and esteros
in the cities and municipalities around
the Manila Bay was undertaken. In
the Pasig River alone, we solved the
recurring problem that prevents the Beach Easement Recovery 67% accomplished,
river from being clear and navigable, with 227 of the 339 structures now compliant
with the 25+5 Beach Easement Guidelines.
with the collection of 13,441.11 tons of
trash and water hyacinth.

To further prevent the influx of trash

and solid wastes into the river, which
Improvement of the Boracay Circumferential
directly drains into Manila Bay, trash Road 50% accomplished, with ongoing
traps were installed in strategic construction of sidewalks with paving blocks,
locations along the river. street lighting, tree planting, pavement
marking, and the provision of bike lanes.
To sustain our gains, the Manila Bay
Rehabilitation Program continues to be
one of our top priorities. With the firm
resolve to bring Manila Bay back to life,
we urge our countrymen to support Ongoing rehabilitation and recovery of wetland
and join the cleanup, rehabilitation ecosystems conducted with private sector
partners, i.e., Energy Development Corporation,
and preservation of the Manila Bay, San Miguel Corporation, Aboitiz Foundation
in accordance with the three-year Inc., Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., Boracay Tubi
Manila Bay Rehabilitation Plan. The Systems, Inc., and JG Summit Petrochemical
program covers Region III, Region IV- Corporation.
A, and the NCR as the priority areas.
With the unwavering commitment and
determination of every volunteer to
contribute in this rehabilitation effort,
half of the battle is won for Manila Bay.
Ongoing implementation of the Boracay
However, we must not stop here. Let Drainage Improvement Project, with the
construction of drainage systems along Bulabog
us be ambitious in securing the future
Road 97.39% accomplished and installation of
of the next generation, particularly by pumps at the Central Boracay Business District,
protecting the environment while at the the most flood-prone area in the island, 60%
same time, supporting the livelihood of accomplished.
our people.
Source: DENR

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Figure 8.6 Accomplishments Under the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program

• Decreased coliform levels

in Major Manila Bay Outfalls
The establishment of the Sewage through the sewage interceptor
Treatment Plant along Roxas and treatment plant installed
Boulevard in Manila, which was in front of the Manila Yacht
inaugurated in January 2020, is Club. Coliform levels drastically
part of the government’s efforts decreased from 54 million most
to clean up, rehabilitate, and
probable number (mpn)/100ml
preserve Manila Bay.
Photo Credit: PNA to 920,000 mpn/100ml in outfalls
in Padre Faura, Raja Soliman/
Remedios drainage and Manila
Yacht Club

• Daily treatment of about 205

Groundbreaking of the
Caloocan-Malabon-Navotas million liters of wastewater by
(CAMANA) Water about 1.2 million households
Reclamation through the PhP10.5 billion
Facility in November 2019. CAMANA Water Reclamation
Photo Credit: MWSS Facility

• Dredging and cleanup

DENR Secretary Cimatu and San
of the Tullahan-
Miguel Corporation (SMC) President
Ramon Ang seal with a firm handshake Tinajeros (TuTi) River
the Memorandum of Agreement for the System through the
cleanup of the Tullahan-Tinajeros River PhP1 billion support
System on March 4, 2019. from the SMC
Photo Credit: DENR

• Transforming the Baseco Beach

shoreline into a sustainable
Clean up of Baseco Beach in coastal area through the
Manila Bay on February 6, establishment of a mangrove
2019. Photo Credit: DENR plantation and cleanup of the
Baseco Beach

• Relocation of 42,886 informal

settler families (ISFs) residing
in danger zones, i.e., rivers,
esteros and creeks, out of the
267,727 ISFs target for the 3rd
quarter of 2019
Sources: DENR & PNA

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Improving Air Quality229 Since day one of my Administration,

we have planted a span of 623,672
To help protect human health and the hectares under the ENGP. This
environment, we undertook measures generated an estimated 1.76 million
to improve the air quality in the country. jobs in seedling production, plantation
Among these is the promotion of establishment, and maintenance and
renewable sources and technologies in protection of plantations that provided
both the power and non-power sectors, income to 257,303 individuals from
and the regulation of the exploration, local communities and People’s
development, and utilization of Organizations.
renewable energy sources.
Foremost in the program’s objectives is
In 2019, about 2.6 million tons oil to encourage communities to develop
equivalent (mtoe) were saved through social enterprises to produce sustainable
the energy efficiency and conservation livelihood and entice our LGUs and
program. This avoided the release of
organized upland communities to
5.6 million tons (mt) of carbon dioxide
develop forest plantations including
equivalent. 230
forest parks.
We also closely monitored the
compliance of about 18,089 firms to the Social enterprises focusing on
Philippine Clean Air Act. About 15,074 rubber or coffee plantation were also
of these firms are compliant while more supported, creating more livelihood
than 3,015 were issued with notice of opportunities for our people. Even
violations. 231 I am warning those who People’s Organizations or Associations
will play deaf to the orders of the law. have engaged in timber and fruit
Comply or suffer the consequences of bearing plantations, which provide
your inaction. Let us cooperate to help them livelihood and income. The
our future generations enjoy a clean reliance of communities on our NGP
and livable environment. for their consumption and livelihood
marks a significant step towards our
Sustained the National Greening goal of sustainable development and
Program232 environmental protection.

As a priority program of the government, To sustain our gains, we shall continue

we are implementing the National to implement the NGP. In the spirit of
Greening Program (NGP), which aims bayanihan, we encourage the private sector
to reduce poverty, attain food security, to complement the government’s initiatives
and conserve and protect the country’s and invest in forestry-related undertakings
biodiversity and forests. like tree plantation development and forest
protection projects as measures to protect
the environment and provide sustainable
livelihood to our countrymen.

229 CCAM-DRR, June 30, 2020 and DENR, July 17, 2020.
230 DOE, July 20, 2020.
231 CCAM-DRR Cluster, June 30, 2020.
232 DENR, July 17, 2020.

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The 72-hectare Rubber Plantation of the Lukiki Farmers Care for Environment and Natural
Resources Association located in New Pontevedra, Antipas, Cotabato.
Photo Credit: DENR

Implemented the Plant, Plant,

Plant Program 233
To curb the effects of COVID-19
on our farmers and beneficiaries, Recognizing the decline in the supply
we allowed the use of mechanized and production of food as a result of the
nursery facilities and equipment implementation of lockdowns due to the
in support to food production. As COVID-19 pandemic, we will intensify
of June 2020, we have produced the implementation of the Plant, Plant,
2,198,812 vegetable seedlings and Plant Program or the “Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing
6,436,691 forest tree seedlings. Of Sapat (ALPAS) Laban sa COVID-19” to
these, 855,229 vegetable seedlings benefit our farmers and fisherfolk and
and 550,485 forest tree seedlings have
consumers nationwide. This is our
already been distributed to several
centerpiece initiative to ensure sustained
of our communities and people’s
food production and availability, food
organizations.
accessibility and affordability amidst the
threats of the pandemic.

Source: DENR

233 DA, June 23, 2020 and PNA, May 13, 2020.

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This PhP66 billion stimulus program shall

be instrumental in ensuring our survival, Table 8.3 Plant, Plant, Plant
rebooting our economy, and developing Program Components
the agriculture and fisheries sector. It shall and Projects
also help mitigate the damages brought
by the pandemic among our farmers COMPONENT 1
and fisherfolk. To help our farmers and IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT TO FARMERS, FISHERS,
FARM WORKERS, AND PRODUCERS
fisherfolk build up their agricultural
value chain, we shall implement projects 1. Rice Buffer stocking
that will enhance economic recovery and 2. Upscaling of KADIWA ni Ani at Kita
increase income opportunities (see Table 3. Rice Resiliency Project
4. Integrated Livestock and Corn Resiliency Project
8.3).
5. Expanded Small Ruminants and Poultry Project
6. Enhanced White Corn Production for Food
We will also intensify the use of advanced Resiliency
and relevant technologies to increase our 7. Coconut-based Diversification Project
levels of productivity. Our utmost priority 8. Fisheries Resiliency Project
is to ensure that our people will not 9. Urban Agriculture Project
10. Revitalized Gulayan Project
starve, and that we have enough supply
11. Expanded Sure Aid and Recovery Project
to tide us over the lean months. This shall
12. Expanded Agriculture Insurance Project
apply to all other major agricultural and 13. Sustained Information, Education, and
fishery commodities. Communication Project
Our country shall move forward and face 14. Social Amelioration for Farmers, Fishers, and
Farm Workers

COMPONENT 2
FOOD LOGISTICS / FOOD MARKETS AND OTHER INTERVENTIONS
TO MITIGATE THE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF COVID-19

1. Food Logistics / Food Markets Project

2. Strengthening of Price Monitoring and
Enforcement System
Some fisherfolk beneficiaries of the ALPAS 3. Communication support to Agri 4Ps
Laban sa COVID-19 Program 4. Expanding expansion support to the provincial
Photo Credit: CCAM-DRR and DA LGUs
5. Agricultural and Fisheries Commodity Exchange
System
6. Digital Agriculture Project

COMPONENT 3
EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE TO AGRICULTURAL FARM WORKERS
TO HELP FUNNEL CASH TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY

As of July 8, 2020, a total of 21,717 hectares 1. Cash for Work Project in Agriculture
or 50.15% of the DA-CAR target area have
already been provided with seed assistance
benefitting about 19,975 rice farmers in the
region. Source: DA
Photo Credit: DA and Maricel Marafo, Rice
Program

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 Way Forward : Towards a Legacy of Ensuring
the Well-being and Resilience of Filipinos
the next normal with firm resolve and sustainable means of pursuing growth
certainty. We shall see to it that our actions and development to provide livelihood
shall not just be an amalgamation of knee- to our countrymen while ensuring that
jerk reactions and quick fixes but will our natural resources are sustainably
seriously take into account the country’s harnessed, thus maintaining ecological
long-term sustainability. Beyond the stability and health.
pandemic, we shall bolster our healthcare
system hand-in-hand with our efforts for It is also imperative that once and for all,
sustainable development, environmental we realize durable institutional reforms
protection and conservation, and towards bolstering our resilience against
resiliency. We shall ensure that the lessons natural disasters. We need to pass the
from this pandemic are translated into Administration version of the DDR
concrete and lasting actions to ensure the now. We are all witnesses to the painful
well-being and resilience of Filipinos. lessons learned from past disasters such
as super typhoon Yolanda. These hard-
Our healthcare system shall be earned lessons should not be ignored.
significantly geared-up to combat similar As a short term yet high impact effort to
pandemics, while also addressing our ensure effective disaster response, I want
age-old health concerns. We shall do this the clearing of roads to be intensified
by giving the health sector a responsive nationwide to help ensure the seamless
budget to upgrade its facilities and dispatch of responders and immediate
equipment, hire more healthcare workers, relief operations. In the same vein, we
and institute health resiliency measures. need to decongest our traditional urban
I shall aggressively move towards the centers, particularly Metro Manila, to
creation of an empowered body for reduce their vulnerabilities to pollution,
disease prevention and control to serve disasters, and infectious diseases. As part
as our nerve center in preparing for and of our comprehensive efforts to achieve
managing similar contagions. this, we shall pursue the creation of super-
regional centers and the eventual transfer
Cognizant of the fact that the abuse of of the seat of national government to
wildlife and endangered species leads a more resilient site. This would also
to the transfer of harmful diseases to help ensure the uninterrupted delivery
humans, we shall value nature as the of public services to the people in case a
foundation for a healthy society. Towards disaster renders Metro Manila paralyzed.
this end, we shall intensify our efforts to
safeguard the environment. I want our I have full faith in the resiliency and
success in Boracay Island to be sustained capacity of the Filipino people to rise
and replicated across the country. I want above any disaster, pandemic or effects of
the Manila Bay rehabilitation program climate change. We owe it to them to build
to shift to sixth gear to produce the on that innate resiliency with tenacity and
same, if not better, results as in Boracay urgency.
Island. Alongside this, we shall prioritize
Photo Credit: BRP Davao del Sur, Philippine Navy.
 Conclusion
From the ashes of adversity, a more resilient and stronger nation built on
Bayanihan, Panaghiusa, and Pag-asa shall emerge.

The spirit of solidarity and unity that we have shown amidst the tests that we
are facing as a people is my source of hope. The same spirit will serve as the
drumbeat to which we shall all march in unison.

May our innate sense of Bayanihan and Malasakit ignite a fire in us. I enjoin you
all to continue helping with greater zeal the less privileged as we continue to
search for the light at the end of the tunnel.

Let this be my call and challenge to my fellow workers in government, local

chief executives, the members of Congress, the Judiciary and the constitutional
commissions, the economic titans, civil society, and our people: let us be a
blessing to our fellow Filipinos. This is the time to persevere, bring out the
very best in each one of us, and do the most good in the best way we ever can.
This is the time to set aside our differences as we take care of one another and
work together to help our country recover.

Together, we shall fight this pandemic with the same fervor as our campaign
against illegal drugs, criminality, insurgency, corruption in high places and
entrenched parochial interests.

We shall collectively build a nation that is more secure, prosperous, healthy,

and resilient and bequeath to the next generation a better quality of life wherein
everyone’s potential is maximized and aspirations realized.

Let me end, once again, by wishing everyone in the language of the old: “May
God keep us forever sheltered in the hollow of His hand.”
THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

ANNEX: ONGOING AND PROPOSED INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Table 7.1 List of RoRo routes targeted to be opened by 2022

1. Lucena, Quezon - Romblon, Romblon

2. San Andres, Quezon - San Pascual, Burias Island, Masbate
3. New San Jose Port, Occidental Mindoro - Batangas, Batangas City
4. Taytay, Palawan - Cuyo, Palawan
5. Mainit, Oslob, Cebu - Dumaguete, Negros Oriental
6. Maya Port, Daanbantayan, Cebu - Calbayog City
7. San Juan, Batangas - Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro
8. Siaton, Bonbonon, Negros Oriental - Dipolog, Zamboanga Del Norte
9. San Juan, Batangas - City of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
10. Iloilo City - Cuyo, Palawan
11. San Pascual, Burias Island, Masbate - Pasacao, Camarines Sur
12. San Andres, Quezon - Pasacao, Camarines Sur
13. San Andres, Quezon - San Pascual, Masbate - Pasacao, Camarines Sur
14. Lucena, Quezon - San Fernando, Masbate
15. Lucena, Quezon - Odiongan, Romblon - Caticlan / New Washington, Aklan
16. Cataingan City, Samar - Cataingan, Masbate
17. Cuyo, Palawan - San Jose de Buenavista, Antique
18. Lipata, Surigao - Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte
19. Lucena, Quezon - Buyabod, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque
20. Pantao, Albay - San Pascual, Masbate
21. Poro, Camotes Island, Cebu - Isabel, Leyte
22. Punta Engaño, Mactan Island, Cebu - Getafe, Bohol
23. Tabuelan, Cebu - Ajuy, Iloilo
24. Loay, Bohol - Cagayan de Oro

Source: DOTr

Table 7.2 Ongoing maritime port projects targeted for completion within 2020

1. Rehabilitation and upgrading of Pier 18 in Vitas, Tondo, Manila

2. Construction of Port Operations Building in Abra de Ilog Port, Occidental Mindoro
3. Expansion of Balanacan Port, Marinduque
4. Construction of reinforced concrete pier and RoRo ramp in Bansud Port, Oriental Mindoro
5. Construction of back-up area at the Bulalacao Port, Oriental Mindoro
6. Construction of RoRo ramp and expansion of Bulan Port, Sorsogon
7. Construction of the Coastal Access Road at the Port of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
8. Expansion of Capinpin Port, Bataan
9. Reconstruction of Carmen Port, Romblon
10. Construction of Cobo Port, Catanduanes
11. Construction of Port Operations Building in Coron Port, Palawan
12. Construction of Port Operations Building in Currimao Port, Ilocos Norte
13. Construction of Port Operations Building in Masbate Port, Masbate City
14. Construction of Port Operations Building in Mauban Port, Quezon
15. Rehabilitation of Talaga Port in Mabini, Batangas
16. Rehabilitation of Legazpi Port, Albay

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2016
2020

Table 7.2 Ongoing maritime port projects targeted for completion within 2020

17. Expansion of Matnog Port, Sorsogon

18. Expansion of Puerto Princesa Port, Palawan
19. Expansion of Salomague Port, Ilocos Sur
20. Expansion of Tablas Port, Romblon
21. Expansion of Terminal Management Office, Pasig City
22. Rehabilitation of Tabaco Port, Albay
Source: DOTr

Table 7.3 Select ongoing airport projects

Target
Project Title Description Status
Completion
Bicol (New Construction of an airport to accommodate 66.61% December 2020
Legazpi) two million passengers annually and boost constructed as
International tourism in Bicol. of June 2020
Airport
Rehabilitation of Improvement works on the NAIA to boost Ongoing 2020
the NAIA its passenger capacity and improve its air rehabilitation
navigation facilities and equipment. works
Bulacan Construction of an airport, which will Ongoing pre- 2025
International accommodate 100-200 million passengers construction
Airport annually to complement the operations of works
the NAIA and Clark International Airport.
Catbalogan-Buri Improvement works on the airport, which Ongoing pre- 2021
Airport include the construction of a 1.5-storey construction
passenger terminal building and extension works
of runway.
Source: DOTr

Table 7.4 Night-rated airports as of July 2020 and airports targeted for night-rating by 2022

Airports Night-rated as of July 2020 Airports for Night-rating by 2022

1. NAIA 12. Iloilo International Airport 1. Subic Bay International
2. Clark International Airport 13. Laguindingan Airport Airport
3. Mactan-Cebu International 14. Tacloban Airport 2. Cauayan Airport
Airport 15. Dumaguete Airport 3. Dipolog Airport
4. Davao International Airport 16. Legazpi Airport 4. Pagadian Airport
5. Kalibo International Airport 17. Roxas Airport 5. San Jose (Mindoro) Airport
6. Laoag International Airport 18. Caticlan Airport 6. Bicol (New Legazpi) Airport
7. Puerto Princesa 19. Panglao-Bohol International 7. Sangley Airport
International Airport Airport 8. Ozamiz Airport
8. General Santos 20. Tuguegarao Airport 9. Sanga-Sanga Airport
International Airport 21. Naga Airport 10. Calbayog Airport
9. Zamboanga International 22. Cotabato Airport 11. Ormoc Airport
Airport 12. San Vicente Airport
10. Bacolod-Silay Airport 13. Antique Airport
11. Butuan Airport 14. Virac Airport
15. Catbalogan-Buri Airport
Source: DOTr

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Table 7.5 Other ongoing and proposed projects under the LSEN

Target
Expressway Description Status
Completion
Tarlac-Pangasinan-La • A 59.4-km toll road from the exit of Ongoing NEDA- TBD
Union Expressway (TPLEX) TPLEX in Rosario, La Union to San ICC evaluation
Extension (Rosario – San Juan, La Union.
Juan, La Union)
• Will decongest traffic along
McArthur Highway.
North Eastern Luzon • Composed of 45-km viaduct, 65-km Ongoing feasibility TBD
Expressway roads, and 17-km tunnel to connect study (FS)
Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley
the regions through Quirino, Nueva
Vizcaya, and Nueva Ecija.
North Luzon Expressway • A 91.10-km expressway that will For FS TBD
East (NLEE) enhance transport network in
North Luzon.
NLEE (La Mesa Parkways • A 19-km toll road between For NEDA-ICC TBD
Project) Commonwealth – La Mesa and evaluation
Bigte, Bulacan.
• Will ease traffic congestion in
Northeast Metro Manila and
provide a scenic corridor to
Northeast Luzon.
NLEX Harbor Link, Segment • An 8.35-km expressway between Ongoing pre- 2024
8.2 NLEX Harbor Link Segment 8.1 construction
and Commonwealth Avenue in works
Quezon City.
• Will reduce travel time from
Mindanao Ave. to Commonwealth
Ave. from 45 minutes to 10 minutes.
• Will benefit 45,000 motorists per
day.
Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas • A 50.43-km tollway traversing of Ongoing NEDA- TBD
Expressway Silang, Tagaytay, Amadeo, Mendez, ICC evaluation
Alfonso, and Magallanes, all in the
Cavite, and Nasugbu in Batangas.
• Provide an alternative route to
Aguinaldo Highway and Sta. Rosa-
Tagaytay Road
Quezon-Bicol Expressway • A 220 kilometer expressway that Ongoing pre- TBD
will from at Tayabas, Quezon and construction
will end at the existing Maharlika activities
Highway in San Fernando,
Camarines Sur.
• Will reduce travel time between
Pagbilao, Quezon and San
Fernando, Camarines Sur by 2.2
hours.
Source: DPWH

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2020

Table 7.6 Bridges under the Inter-Island Linkage Program

Target
Bridges Description Status
Completion
Panguil Bay Bridge • A 3.1-km bridge connecting the City Ongoing pre- 2023
of Tangub in Misamis Occidental to construction activities
the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao del
Norte.
• Will reduce travel time between the two
areas from 2.5 hours to 7 minutes.
Panglao-Tagbilaran • A 1.27-km main bridge connecting Ongoing construction of 2023
City Offshore mainland Bohol to Dauis and Panglao; off-shore and short-
Connector Bridge two short-span bridges totaling 42.7 m; span bridges and
and 1.40-km approach roads. approach roads
• Will reduce travel time between
Tagbilaran City seaport and Panglao
Island from 45 minutes to 15 minutes.
Guicam Bridge, • A 540.80-m bridge and a 667.20-m Ongoing pre- 2023
Zamboanga Sibugay approach road connecting Olutanga construction activities
Island to mainland Zamboanga
Peninsula in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Nalil-Sikkiat Bridge, • A 380.80-m bridge and 160-m road Ongoing pre- 2023
Tawi-Tawi connecting Brgy. Nalil and Brgy. Pakias construction activities
in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
Tongsinah-Paniongan • A 380.80-m bridge and 188.46- Ongoing pre- 2023
Bridge, Tawi-Tawi m approach road connecting Brgy. construction activities
Tongsinah and Brgy. Paniongan in
Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
Malassa-Lupa Pula • A 480.60-m bridge and 200-m road Ongoing pre- 2023
Bridge, Tawi-Tawi connecting Brgy. Malassa and Brgy. construction activities
Lupa Pula, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
Panay-Guimaras- • A 32.47-km inter-island bridges, Ongoing pre- 2028
Negros Link Island including connecting roads and construction actities
Bridge Project interchanges, that will link Panay
Island, Guimaras Island, and Negros
Island.
• Will reduce travel time between:
◊ Iloilo, Panay and Buenavista,
Guimaras from 45 minutes to 10
minutes; and
◊ Buenavista, Guimaras and
Pulupandan, Negros from one
hour to 15 minutes.
Cebu-Mactan Bridge • A 3.3-km bridge and 4.9-km road Ongoing pre- 2027
and Coastal Road connecting Mandaue City, Cebu, and construction actities
Construction Project Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan.
Samal Island-Davao • A 3.98-km bridge connecting Island Ongoing pre- 2024
City Connector Garden City of Samal and Davao City. construction actities
Bridge
• Travel time will be reduced from 26-
30 minutes using RoRo/ferry to 2-5
minutes using the bridge.
Bataan-Cavite • Construction of a 32.15-km, two Ongoing pre- 2024
Interlink Bridge long-span bridges connecting construction actities
Mariveles, Bataan to Naic, Cavite.
• Travel time will be reduced from six
hours to 45 minutes.
Source: DPWH

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THE PRESIDENT’S PENULTIMATE REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 2016-2020

Table 7.7 Ongoing railway projects

Target
Project Title Description Status
Completion
LRT-1 Cavite • A 11.7-km extension that will connect the 47.50% 2022
Extension current LRT-1 from Baclaran to the Niog area constructed as of
in Bacoor. June 2020
• Will reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor
from over two hours to about 25 minutes.
• Will accommodate 800,000 passengers daily.
LRT-2 East • A 3.8-km extension of the existing LRT-2 90.17% 2020
Extension System from Santolan, Pasig City to Masinag constructed as of
in Antipolo, Rizal with two additional stations: June 2020
(1) Emerald station in Cainta; and (2) Masinag
station in Antipolo City.
• Will reduce commuting time from Masinag in
Antipolo to Claro M. Recto in Manila by 30 to
40 minutes from an average of three hours of
driving on the road.
• Will accommodate an additional 80,000
passengers per day.
MRT Line 7 • A 22-km line that will connect North Avenue in 58.95% 2021
Quezon City to the City of San Jose Del Monte, constructed as of
Bulacan. June 2020
• Will service 300,000-850,000 passengers in
Metro Manila, Bulacan, and Rizal.
Unified Grand • Will connect the four main lines in Metro Construction 2021
Central Station Manila: MRT-3, LRT-1, MRT-7, and the Metro of Area B in
Manila Subway. September 2017
and Area A in
• Divided into three parts: February 2019
◊ Area A – Additional one Station for LRT-1
and MRT-3;
◊ Area B – Atrium which will connect Area A
and Area C; and
◊ Area C – Terminal Station of MRT-7.
• The 13,700-square meter project will have a
spacious concourse area that will facilitate
seamless transfer of passengers from one line
to another.
Metro Manila • A 36-km subway with 17 stations (from Quirino 17.26% 2025
Subway Highway corner Mindanao Avenue to NAIA) that constructed as of
will connect the north and south portions of June 2020
Manila.
• Will reduce travel time from Quezon City to NAIA
from one hour and 10 minutes to 35 minutes.

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2020

Table 7.7 Ongoing railway projects

Target
Project Title Description Status
Completion
PNR North (Manila- • Phase 1 (Tutuban-Malolos) is a 37.6-km Phase 1 is 39.26% 2022
Clark) segment with 10 stations that can accommodate constructed as
340,000 passengers in its opening year. of June 2020,
while Phase 2
◊ Will allow commuters from Tutuban to is undergoing
reach Malolos in 35 minutes compared to pre-construction
approximately two hours by bus or car via works
McArthur Highway.
• Phase 2 (Malolos-Clark) is a 53-km segment
with six stations.
◊ Will allow commuters to reach the Clark
International Airport from Buendia, Makati
in 55 minutes compared to two hours by
private vehicle via expressway.
PNR Calamba • A 56-km railway project that will link Metro Undergoing 2023
(Manila-Calamba) Manila and Laguna, which will accommodate pre-construction
550,000 passengers daily upon full system works
operation.
• Will cut travel time between Manila and
Calamba, Laguna from three to one hour.
PNR Bicol • A 639-km long-haul passenger and freight rail Under ongoing 2023
(Manila-Bicol) from Manila to Batangas, Albay, and Sorsogon, pre-construction
which can service 100,000 passengers daily. works
• Will cut travel time between Manila and Legazpi
City from 12 hours via car to just six hours.
Source: DOTr

Table 7.8 Proposed bridges to ease congestion in Metro Manila

Bridge Description Target Completion

North and South Harbor A 2,026-m Bridge connecting North Harbor and 2024
Bridge South Harbor in Manila.
Palanca-Villegas Bridge A 438.1-m Steel Lohse Arch Bridge connecting A. 2023
Villegas St. and Carlos Palanca St. in Manila
Beata-Manalo Bridge A 637-m bridge, connecting Beata, Padre Jacinto TBD
Zamora, and Felix Manalo Sts. along Pasig River.
Blumentritt-Antipolo Bridge A 364-m bridge, linking Antipolo St., Makati City TBD
and Coronado St., Mandaluyong City.
Eastbank-Westbank A 200-m bridge connecting Eastbank Dike Road TBD
Bridge 1 and Westbank Dike Road, Pasig City.
J.P. Rizal-Lopez Jaena Bridge A 594.2-m bridge connecting J.P. Rizal St. and 2023
Lopez Jaena St. in Marikina City.
J.P. Rizal-St. Mary Bridge A 2,178.2-m bridge connecting J.P. Rizal St. and A. 2024
Bonifacio Ave. in Marikina City.
Marikina-Vista Real Bridge A 414.9-m bridge connecting Kabayani Road in 2024
Marikina City and Stockholm St. & Delhi St. in
Quezon City.
Mercury-Evangelista Bridge A 527.8-m bridge connecting Mercury Ave., TBD
Quezon City and Evangelista Ave., Pasig City.

Eastbank-Westbank Bridge 2 A 929.8-m bridge connecting Eastbank Dike Road 2024

and Westbank Dike Road in Cainta, Rizal.
Source: DPWH

xvii
 LIST OF ACRONYMS

4Ps Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program BOI Board of Investments

4Ps-MCCT 4Ps-Modified Conditional Cash Transfer BOL Bangsamoro Organic Law
ABS-CBN Alto Broadcasting System-Chronicle BP2 Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa
Broadcasting Network Program
ACADEME Academic Development to Empower the BPBH Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!
Masses towards Endless Opportunities Program
ACPC Agricultural Credit Policy Council BPI Bank of the Philippine Islands
AFCS Automatic Fare Collection System BPLS Business Processing and Licensing
AFP Armed Forces of the Philippines System
AFP/PNP Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine BRP Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas
National Police BSP Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
AirBnB Air Bed and Breakfast BTA Bangsamoro Transition Authority
AIR-TIP Assistance Against Illegal Recruitment / BTMS Budget and Treasury Management
Trafficking-in-Person Victim System
AK-47 Avtomat Kalashnikova-47 C4W Cash for Work
ALPAS Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat Laban sa C-5 Circumferential Road 5
COVID-19 C-6 Circumferential Road 6
ALS Alternative Learning System CAAP Civil Aviation Authority of the
AMLC Anti-Money Laundering Council Philippines
AO Administrative Order CAB Comprehensive Agreement on the
ARB Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Bangsamoro
ARTA Anti-Red Tape Authority CADTs Certificate of Ancestral Domain
ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations Titles
ASF African Swine Fever CALABARZON Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal,
ASG Abu Sayyaf Group Quezon (Region IV-A)
ATI Agricultural Training Institute CAMANA Caloocan Malabon Navotas Water
ATIGA ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement Reclamation Facility
ATN Assistance to Nationals CAMP COVID-19 Adjustment Measures
AWA Alternative Work Arrangements Program
AWSC ASEAN-wide Self-Certification CAMP-AKAP CAMP-Abot Kamay ang Pagtulong
AWTIP Angat Water Transmission Improvement sa OFWs
Project CAR Cordillera Administrative Region
AY Academic Year CARES COVID-19 Assistance to Restart
BALAI Building Adequate, Livable, Affordable, and Enterprises
Inclusive Filipino Communities CBDRP Community-based Drug
BARMM Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Rehabilitation Program
Muslim Mindanao CBP Central Business Portal
BATAS BOC’s Action Team Against Smugglers CBS Cash Budgeting System
BBWSP Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project CCAM-DRR Climate Change Adaptation,
BCDA Bases Conversion and Development Mitigation, and Disaster Risk
Authority Reduction
BDA Basic Deposit Account CCB Contact Center ng Bayan
BE-LCP Basic Education-Learning Continuity Plan CCTV Closed Circuit Television
BFF Bayanihan Frontliners Fund CDC Center for Disease Control
BHERT Barangay Health Emergency Response CebuPac Cebu Pacific Air
Team CEO Chief Executive Officer
BI Bureau of Immigration CHED Commission on Higher Education
BIAF Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces CITIRB Corporate Income Tax and
BIATF Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force Incentives Reform Bill
BIDA Boracay Island Development Authority CLEA Capital Loan Easy Access
BIFF Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters CLLEX Central Luzon Link Expressway
BIR Bureau of Internal Revenue CLOA Certificate of Land Ownership
BKBK Barangay Ko, Bahay Ko Disinfection/ Award
Sanitation Project CLUP Comprehensive Land Use Plan
BLA Bilateral Labor Agreement COC Code of Conduct
BMBEs Barangay Micro Business Enterprises CONWEP Confederation of Wearable
BNRS Business Name Registration System Exporters of the Philippines
BOC Bureau of Customs COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019
 PRP
PRP
2016
2016
2020
2020

LIST OF ACRONYMS

CPP Communist Party of the Philippines EIU The Economist Intelligence Unit
CPP-NPA- Communist Party of the Philippines - New ENDO End of Contract
NDF People’s Army - National Democratic Front ENGP Enhanced National Greening
CREATE Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Program
Enterprises Act EO Executive Order
CSBP Comprehensive Social Benefits Program EPP Edukasyong Pantahanan at
CSC Civil Service Commission Pangkabuhayan
CSF Credit Surety Fund EQFs Emergency Quarantine Facilities
CTBEX Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway ER Energy Regulations
CTG Communist Terrorist Group ERCA Expanded Rice Credit Assistance
DA Department of Agriculture ESC Education Service Contracting
DBM Department of Budget and Management ETEEAP Expanded Tertiary Education
DBP Development Bank of the Philippines Equivalency and Accreditation
DDR Department of Disaster Resilience Program
DENR Department of Environment and Natural FASSSTER Feasibility Analysis of
Resources Syndromic Surveillance using
DepEd Department of Education Spatio-Temporal Epidemiological
DFA Department of Foreign Affairs Modeler for Early Detection of
DHSUD Department of Human Settlements and Diseases
Urban Development FDI Foreign Direct Investments
DI Daulah Islamiyah FF Fast Frigate
DICT Department of Information and FFWS Flood Forecasting and Warning
Communications Technology Systems
DILEEP DOLE Integrated Livelihood and FHE Free Higher Education
Emergency Employment Program FIRB Fiscal Incentives Review Board
DILG Department of the Interior and Local FIST Financial Institutions Strategic
Government Transfer Act
DLP.PH Dynamic Learning Program FMR Farm-to-Market Road
DMU Diesel Multiple Unit FOI Freedom of Information
DND Department of National Defense FSP Financial Service Provider
DND-OCD Department of National Defense - Office of FSRF Financial Subsidy for Rice
Civil Defense Farmers
DOE Department of Energy FW4A Free Wi-Fi for All Project
DOF Department of Finance FY Fiscal Year
DOH Department of Health GAA General Appropriations Act
DOJ Department of Justice GASTPE Government Assistance to
DOLE Department of Labor and Employment Students and Teachers in Private
DOLE-AMP DOLE-Adjustment Measures Program Education
DOST Department of Science and Technology GCQ General Community Quarantine
DOST-SEI Department of Science and Technology- GCTA Good Conduct Time Allowance
Science Education Institute GDP Gross Domestic Product
DOT Department of Tourism GECS-MOVE Government Emergency
DOTr Department of Transportation Communication System-
DPWH Department of Public Works and Highways Mobile Operation Vehicle for
DRRM Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Emergency
DSWD Department of Social Welfare and GeoRiskPH Geospatial Information
Development Management and Analysis Project
DTI Department of Trade and Industry for Hazards and Risk Assessment
e-BPLS Electronic Business Permits and Licensing in the Philippines
System GFI Government Financial Institution
E-CLIP Enhanced Comprehensive Local GFSI Global Food Security Index
Integration Program GMMA Greater Metro Manila Area
eComplaintBIR’s eComplaint Run After Tax Evaders GNSS Global Navigation Satellite
R.A.T.E. System
ECQ Enhanced Community Quarantine GOCC Government Owned and
ECT Emergency Cash Transfer Program Controlled Corporations
EDSA Epifanio de los Santos Avenue GPS Global Positioning System
e-FOI Electronic Freedom of Information GSIS Government Service Insurance
E-Inquest Electronic Inquest Proceeding System
 LIST OF ACRONYMS

GUIDE Government Financial Institutions LESF Learner Enrollment Survey Form

Unified Initiatives to Distressed LGU Local Government Unit
Enterprises for Economic Recovery LIGTAS COV- Local Isolation and General
ha Hectare ID-19 Treatment Areas for COVID-19 cases
HEIs Higher Education Institutions LinGap sa Lingap at Gabay Para sa May Sakit
HFDR High Frequency Doppler Radars MaSa
HH Household LMS Learning Management System
HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus LRA Land Registration Authority
HLURB Housing and Land Use Regulatory LRT Light Rail Transit
Board LRT1 Light Rail Transit Line 1
HRH Human Resources for Health LRT2 Light Rail Transit Line 2
HUDCC Housing and Urban Development LRV Light Rail Vehicle
Coordinating Council LSEN Luzon Spine Expressway Network
i-ACT Inter-Agency Council for Traffic LSIs Locally Stranded Individuals
IATF-EID Inter-Agency Task Force on LTFRB Land Transportation Franchising and
Emerging Infectious Diseases Regulatory Board
IATF-MEID Inter-Agency Task Force on the LTMS Land Transportation Management
Management of Emerging Infectious System
Diseases LTO Land Transportation Office
ICCP Investment and Capital Corporation MAPEH Music, Arts, Physical Education, and
of the Philippines Health
ICT Information and Communications Maynilad Maynilad Water Services Inc.
Technology Mbps Megabits per Second
ICU Intensive Care Unit MC Memorandum Circular
IDF Internally Displaced Family MCIA Mactan-Cebu International Airport
IDFs Internally Displaced Families MELCs Most Essential Learning
IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Competencies
Development Meralco Manila Electric Railroad and Light
iFund Innovation Enabling Fund Company
IGRB Intergovernmental Relations Body MFI Microfinance Institutions
INC Iglesia ni Cristo MICT Manila International Container
INDOMALPHI Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines Terminal
IPs Indigenous Peoples MILF Moro Islamic Liberation Front
IRR Implementing Rules and Regulations MILF-BIAF MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed
ISFs Informal Settler Families Forces
I-STUDY Interim Student’s Loan for Tuitions Occidental Mindoro, Oriental
towards Upliftment of Education for MIMAROPA Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and
the Development of the Youth Palawan (Region IV-B)
JETC Joint Economic and Trade MISLATEL Mindanao Islamic Telephone
Committee Company, Inc.
JHS Junior High School MLD Million Liters per Day
JICA Japan International Cooperation MMDA Metropolitan Manila Development
Agency Authority
JMSDF Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force MMT Million Metric Tons
JPST Joint Peace and Security Team MNP Mobile Number Portability
K to 12 Kindergarten and 12 MOOE Maintenance and Other Operating
KADIWA Katuwang sa Diwa at Gawa para sa Expenses
Masaganang Ani at Mataas na Kita MOU Memorandum of Understanding
KAK Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita MPHILGEPS Modernized Philippine Government
KDK KADIWA Diskwento Karavan Electronic Procurement System
kg Kilogram MPN Most Probable Number
km Kilometer MRT Metro Rail Transit
KMME Kapatid Mentor Me Program MRT-3 Metro Rail Transit Line 3
kph Kilometer per Hour MSE Micro and Small Enterprises
KSA Key Shelter Agencies MSFF Marginalized Small Farmers and
LAF Legal Assistance Fund Fisherfolk
LANDBANK Land Bank of the Philippines MSME Micro, Small and Medium
LBI Luzon Bypass Infrastructure Enterprises
 2016
2016
2020
2020

LIST OF ACRONYMS

MT Metric Ton Communist Armed Conflict

MT Million Tons OBI Open Budget Index
MT/ha metric tons per hectare OBS Open Budget Survey
MTC Modified Train Capacity OES Office of the Executive Secretary
MTOE Million Tons Oil Equivalent OFW Overseas Filipino Worker
MUP Military and Uniformed Personnel OPAPP Office of the Presidential Adviser on
MVP Manuel V. Pangilinan Group of the Peace Process
Group of Companies OSSCO One-Stop Service Center for OFWs
Companies OTP On-time Performance
MW Megawatt OWWA Overseas Workers Welfare
MWSS Metropolitan Waterworks and Administration
Sewerage System P2P Point-to-Point
NAIA Ninoy Aquino International Airport P3 Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso
NaLUA National Land Use Act PACC Presidential Anti-Corruption
NAMRIA National Mapping and Resource Commission
Information Authority PAGASA Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical
NBI National Bureau of Investigation and Astronomical Services
NBOSS National Business One-Stop Shop Administration
NBP National Broadband Plan Pag-IBIG Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan:
NC Negosyo Center Ikaw, Bangko, Industria at Gobyerno
NCC New Clark City Home Development Mutual Fund
NCIP National Commission on Indigenous PAL Philippine Airlines
Peoples PAMANA Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan
NCR National Capital Region Program
NCWS - KDP New Centennial Water Source – PCC Philippine Carabao Center
Kaliwa Dam Project PCDCP Philippine Center for Disease
NDF National Democratic Front Control and Prevention
NDRRM National Disaster Risk Reduction PCG Philippine Coast Guard
and Management PCOO Presidential Communications
NDRRMC National Disaster Risk Reduction Operations Office
and Management Council PCR Polymerase Chain Reaction
NEDA National Economic and Development PCSO Philippine Charity Sweepstakes
Authority Office
NEHEMIA National Effort on the Harmonization PDEA Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
on the Harmonization of Efficient PDP Philippine Development Plan
Measures of Interrelated Agencies PDRF Philippine Disaster Resilience
NFA National Food Authority Foundation
NFOC National Fiber Optic Cable PEN Public Education Network
NGA National Government Agency PES Public Employment Service
NGAs National Government Agencies PESFA Private Education Student Financial
NGCP National Grid Corporation of the Assistance
Philippines PESONet Philippine Electronic Fund Transfer
NGO Non-Governmental Organization System and Operations Network
NGP National Government Portal PH Philippines
NGP National Greening Program PH Progreso Philippine Program for Recovery
NHA National Housing Agency with Equity and Solidarity
NHIP National Health Insurance Program PhilHealth Philippine Health Insurance
NIC National Incident Command Corporation
NICA National Intelligence Coordincating PhilMech Philippine Center for Postharvest
Agency Development and Mechanization
NLEX North Luzon Expressway PhilRice Philippine Rice Research Institute
NPA New People’s Army PhilStar The Philippine Star
NSC National Security Council PHL-Micro- Philippine Scientific Earth
NSFI National Strategy for Financial sat Observation Microsatellite
Inclusion PhP Philippine Peso
NTC National Telecommunications PIA Philippine Information Agency
Commission PICC Philippine International Convention
NTF-ELCAC National Task Force to End Local Center
 LIST OF ACRONYMS

PITX Paranaque Integrated Terminal RT-PCR Reverse Transcription-Polymerase

Exchange Chain Reaction
PLCN Pacific Light Cable Network RTVM Radio Television - Malacañang
PLDT Philippine Long Distance Telephone RWP Recovery and Wellness Program
Company SALINTUBIG Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat
PLEA Production Loan Easy Access SAP Social Amelioration Program
PMA Philippine Military Academy SARS-CoV 2 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
PMO-ERG Project Management Office- Coronavirus 2
Earthquake Resiliency Group SCS South China Sea
PMS Presidential Management Staff SEA Southeast Asia
PMS-OSP PMS-Office for Special Projects SEC Securities and Exchangge
PN Promissory Note Commission
PNA Philippine News Agency SETUP Sarangani Energy Corporation
PNG Papua New Guinea Small Enterprise Technology
PNP Philippine National Police Upgrading Program
PNPA Philippine National Police Academy SFP Supplementary Feeding Program
PNR Philippine National Railways SHFC Social Housing Finance Corporation
POEA Philippine Overseas Employment SHS Senior High School
Administration SIBOL Surgical Innovation and
POGO Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator Biotechnology
PPA Philippine Ports Authority SIMEX Simulation Exercise
PPA Programs, Projects, or Activities SLEX South Luzon Expressway
PPE Personal Protective Equipment SLEX TR4 SLEX Toll Road 4
Project HOPE Health Opportunities for People SLMs Self-Learning Modules
Everywhere SLP Student Loan Program
PSA Philippine Statistics Authority SLP Sustainable Livelihood Program
PSG Presidential Security Group SMC San Miguel Corporation
PSIC Philippine Standard Industrial SMS Short Message Service
Classification SOCCSKSAR- South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan
PTOPS Public Transport Online Processing GEN Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos
System City
PUBs Public Utility Buses SONA State of the Nation Address
PUJs Public Utility Jeepneys SOS Safe and Open Spaces
PUVMP PUV Modernization Program SPES Special Program for Employment of
PUVs Public Utility Vehicles Students
QR Code Quick Response Code SPISC Social Pension for Indigent Senior
R&D Research and Development Citizens
R-10 Radial Road 10 SPL Sangay ng Partido sa Localidad
RA Republic Act sq.m Square Meter
RAFPMP Revised Armed Forces of the SRP Suggested Retail Price
Philippines Modernization Program SSS Social Security System
RAPID Growth Rural Agro-Industrial Partnership STAR Southern Tagalog Arterial Road
for Inclusive Development and STEP Special Training for Employment
Growth Program
RATE Run Against Tax Evaders STUFAP Student Financial Assistance
RCEF Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program
Fund SUCs State Universities and Colleges
RFFA Rice Farmer Financial Assistance SURE Survival and Recovery Assistance
RFID Radio Frequency Identification Program
RNA Ribonucleic Acid SURE COV- Expanded SURE Aid and Recovery
ROK Republic of Korea ID-19 Project for Agri-based MSEs
RoRo Roll-on/Roll-off SWDI Social Welfare and Development
RPG Rocket-Propelled Grenade Indicators
RSBSA Registry System for Basic Sectors in SY School Year
Agriculture T3 Test, Trace, and Treat
 LIST OF ACRONYMS

Tb Terabit TWSP Training for Work Scholarship

TCA Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement Program
Tech4ED Technology for Education, UAE United Arab Emirates
Employment, Entrepreneurs, and UAP Urban Agriculture Program
Economic Development UAQTEA Universal Access to Quality Tertiary
TES Tertiary Education Subsidy Education Act
TESDA Technical Education and Skills UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Development Authority UHC Universal Health Care
TLE Technology and Livelihood Education UCMED University of Cebu Medical Center
TNVS Transport Network Vehicle Service UCT Unconditional Cash Transfer
TPLEx Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Program
Expressway UH-1 Utility Helicopter-1
TRAIN Tax Reform for Acceleration and UN United Nations
Inclusion Law UNDP United Nations Development
TRC Treatment and Rehabilitation Center Programme
TTMF Temporary Treatment and UP University of the Philippines
Monitoring Facilities UP-NIH University of the Philippines-
TUPAD Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating National Institutes of Health
Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers UP-PLA- University of the Philippines-
TUPAD TUPAD Barangay Ko, Bahay Ko NADES Planning and Development Research
#BKBK Disinfection/Sanitation Project Foundation, Inc.
“Tullahan- US United States
TuTi Tinajeros River USD United States Dollar
System” UV Utility Vehicles
TV Television VCO Virgin Coconut Oil
TVET Technical and Vocational Education WFH Work-from-Home
and Training WHO World Health Organization
TVL Technical Vocational Livelihood WiFi Wireless Fidelity
TWG Technical Working Group WVF West Valley Fault