President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued a strong call for unified governance on Monday, urging local officials to tighten collaboration with the national government as the country navigates the economic and geopolitical ripples of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking at the Malacañang Palace during the oathtaking ceremony for the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines (VMLP) national executive officers, the President emphasized that the strength of the nation’s response to global instability lies in the synergy between local legislation and national policy.
President Marcos highlighted the VMLP’s critical role as a bridge between the grassroots and the executive branch. He urged the vice mayors to remain steadfast in their service, noting that the “spirit of unity” is the country’s most effective tool against external shocks.
“Sana manatili kayong matatag at pursigido sa inyong paglilingkod, lalo na ngayong maraming krisis ang kinakaharap ng bansa dahil sa tensyon na nangyayari sa Gitnang Silangan,” President Marcos stated. (“I hope you remain firm and persistent in your service, especially now that the country faces many crises due to the tensions occurring in the Middle East.”)
To cushion the impact of the global crisis on Filipino families, the Marcos administration has rolled out a multi-billion peso relief package targeting the most vulnerable sectors. Key initiatives discussed include:
-
Transport Sector Relief: A PhP1.28 billion aid package for transport workers and a PhP2.5 billion fuel subsidy benefiting over 1.4 million drivers and operators.
-
Agricultural Support: Effective April 15, a PhP1 RORO terminal fee will be implemented for vehicles transporting agricultural products to ensure food security and lower logistics costs.
-
Commuter Subsidies: The continuation of “Libreng Sakay” programs in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, alongside a 50% fare discount for LRT-2 and MRT-3.
-
Toll Discounts: Temporary toll relief for jeepneys, buses, and freight trucks carrying food across NLEX, SLEX, and STAR tollways.
Beyond immediate crisis management, the President rallied the VMLP to champion accountable governance and inclusive opportunities. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting local governments as they work together to ensure that no Filipino is left behind, regardless of the challenges posed on the international stage.
“Let us continue to guide and support our citizens until we overcome these trials together,” the Chief Executive concluded.
