Economic cluster of Duterte Cabinet show accomplishments in pre-SONA Forum

July 1, 2019

The economic and infrastructure development cluster of President Rodrigo Duterte's Cabinet commenced on Monday the first of a three-part pre-SONA (State of the Nation Address) forum in Pasay City.  

Cabinet members and departments involved in economic and infrastructure development delivered their pre-SONA reports, focusing on the updates in projects during the first three years of Duterte's term. 

Among those who presented were Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez IIJ, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato dela Peña, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi,and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Ernesto Pernia. 

Present in the infrastructure cluster were Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, Information and Communication Technology Secretary Eliseo Rio Jr., and president and chief executive officer Vivencio Dizon of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority. 

In line with the forum's theme, "Game Changing Reforms for Sustainable Development," among the highlighted implementing reforms were the country's upgraded BBB+ stable outlook credit rating, tax reform package, railway projects, and creation of the New Clark City. 

In a pre-recorded video message, Duterte lauded members of his administration for accomplishments in his first three years in office  and for policy reforms.

"I commend the Cabinet cluster, member agencies, and all government officers for another year. The accomplishments presented in today's pre-SONA forum attest to your dedication in realising our promise for real change," he said.  Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS