Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto has hailed the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development’s (DEPDev) role in building a more resilient and inclusive Philippines through long-term, evidence-based socioeconomic planning, as he led the celebration of its 90th anniversary yesterday.

In his keynote address, Executive Secretary Recto emphasized that the country’s development gains have been achieved not through political cycles, but through disciplined, data-driven policies that place the Filipino people at the center of progress.

“We chose to believe that our development should not be dictated by political whims but by data, direction, and discipline,” he said.

The Executive Secretary, who served as Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and Director-General of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in 2008, described the country’s planning agency as the nerve center of reason in the noise of populism and the scoreboard keeper of what truly matters: jobs created, investments attracted, infrastructure built, and Filipinos lifted out of poverty.

“Because the true state of the nation is written not in rhetoric, but in economic conditions felt by Filipino families every day—sa presyo ng bigas at pagkain, sa pagkakaroon ng disenteng trabaho, at sa pagkamit ng magandang kinabukasan,” he stressed.

The Executive Secretary highlighted that since its establishment in 1935, the national planning institution—now DEPDEV—has served as a constant source of continuity and stability across administrations, guiding the country through major economic disruptions, natural disasters, and global crises.

He cited the country’s steady progress in poverty reduction as proof of the value of inclusive, evidence-based planning, with poverty incidence declining from 23.5% a decade ago to 15.5% in 2023. The government is determined to bring poverty down to single-digit levels by 2028.

“This means that years of planning have sent millions of children to school, have provided millions of families with roofs over their heads, and have given millions of Filipinos with more dignity in their daily lives over the years,” the Executive Secretary said.

With this, he paid tribute to the DEPDev family—past and present—calling them “the unsung heroes of the Republic” who provide continuity, clarity, and stability in governance.

He also expressed gratitude to the country’s development partners for their continued trust and support, noting that international cooperation has been critical in the Philippines’ development through the years.

The Executive Secretary further reaffirmed the Marcos Jr. administration’s commitment to fully implement the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 and realize Ambisyon Natin 2040.

In closing, Executive Secretary Recto called on stakeholders to sustain a culture of planning beyond politics, stressing that nation-building depends on collective action—planning, building, and delivering together to secure progress for both present and future generations of Filipinos.

“Do not stop dreaming and do not stop planning—para sa Bagong Pilipinas at para sa magandang kinabukasan ng bawat Pilipino,” he said.

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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced Thursday that the Social Security System (SSS) will offer emergency loans to its members this December, to provide them immediate assistance to purchase essential needs.

“Simula itong Disyembre na ito ay makakapagbigay na ang SSS ng tinatawag na emergency loan dahil habang nasa ilalim halimbawa ng national emergency ay magbibigay ng emergency loan ang SSS,” President Marcos said in a video message.

“Magagamit po ninyo itong loan na ito para sa inyong pangangailangan lalo na kagaya ng aking nabanggit ay pagka emergency, ito po ang makukuha ninyo sa SSS,” the President added.

According to the President, the loan has a low 7 percent interest rate and comes with a six-month payment moratorium.

“Ibig sabihin, pagtanggap ninyo ng loan galing sa SSS, sa unang anim na buwan hindi kayo kailangan magbayad para sa loan amortization para naman mapagaan ang inyong dala,” the President said.

The Chief Executive added he continues to coordinate with SSS to find more ways to provide safer and fairer alternative micro loan and emergency loans for Filipinos.

“Maganda po ito kasi imbes na pupunta po kayo sa ‘5-6’ at mapasubo sa malalim na utang ay mayroon na kayong magagamit at ang babayaran lang ay seven percent lamang. Kaya sana ito ay makatulong po sa inyong lahat,” the President said, referring to the predatory money lending scheme commonly availed of by low-income households.

President Marcos last November 6 declared a one-year state of national calamity under Proclamation No. 1077, in response to widespread destruction from calamities and in preparation for upcoming natural disasters. | PND

Respect for the Constitution, service to the Filipino people, and loyalty to our Republic.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized this as he administered the oath of office to the newly promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and graduates of Foreign Pre-Commissioned Training Institutions on Thursday.

In his speech during the ceremony at the Malacañan Palace, President Marcos underscored the officials’ crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring national security.

“We are reminded today that this oath-taking is a reaffirmation of a sacred trust: respect for the Constitution, service to the Filipino people, and loyalty to the Republic,” President Marcos said.

“As you open another chapter, you also accept greater responsibility to lead with wisdom, restraint, and moral clarity,” the President added.

The Chief Executive reminded the military officials that the stars they now wear symbolize the weight of their responsibility to protect the Filipino people, defend the country’s territorial integrity, and uphold democratic freedoms.

The President said such responsibility is shared by military reservists who strengthen the capabilities of the Armed Force through their role as a force multiplier.

“This ceremony serves as a powerful affirmation that your loyalty is anchored to the Constitution, to our democratic institutions, and above all, to the people,” President Marcos said.

The President also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to modernizing the AFP, strengthening its readiness to respond to both traditional and emerging security challenges through training, international cooperation, and enhanced operational capability.

President Marcos cited the recent increases in the base pay and daily subsistence allowance of military and uniformed personnel as part of the government’s continued efforts to improve their welfare.

“All these reflect our principle that honoring service means ensuring that those who serve are given the support and dignity that they rightfully deserve,” the President said.

“May you always wear the stars on your shoulders as daily reminders of your duty to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and, if necessary, fight for the Republic with honor and with courage,” the President added.

The President also recognized the families of the officers for their sacrifices and steadfast support, noting that their role is essential in sustaining a military that serves the nation with honor and dignity.

President Marcos concluded by encouraging the AFP to remain united in its mission to serve the Filipino people and contribute to building a stronger and more secure Bagong Pilipinas. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed all national agencies to observe austerity in Christmas and year-end celebrations, considering the recent natural disasters and calamities in the country.

By the authority of President Marcos, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto issued Memorandum Circular No. 110 on December 15, 2025 directing all national government agencies (NGAs) and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, to observe austerity in the celebration of the Christmas season.

The directive likewise encouraged local government units to adopt similar austerity measures.

“In light of recent natural disasters and calamities in the country, it is necessary to adopt austerity measures during the Christmas season to ensure greater efficiency in public spending,” MC 110 stated.

The order also aims to prevent the misuse of government resources, foster a culture of simplicity within the bureaucracy, and support the government’s efforts to prioritize essential programs and services.

“All NGAs and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, are hereby directed, and local government units are hereby encouraged, to observe austerity in the celebration of the Christmas season, and to keep Christmas and year-end celebrations simple and meaningful, in solidarity with all the Filipinos still recovering from recent disasters,” MC 110 directed.

The memorandum added that the administration of President Marcos is committed to promoting fiscal discipline and the judicious use of government resources, consistent with the country’s socio-economic priorities and ongoing expenditure management reforms.

MC 110 cited Executive Order No. 292 or the Administrative Code of 1987, which provides that all government resources shall be managed, expended, or utilized in accordance with relevant laws, rules, and regulations, and safeguarded against loss or wastage through illegal or improper disposition to ensure efficiency, economy, and effectiveness in the operations of government. | PND

Malacañang said Wednesday that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains confident that the proposed PhP6.793 trillion national budget for 2026 will be signed before the end of the year.

“Hindi pa naman natatapos ang Disyembre… at sa tingin ng Pangulo ay may sapat pang panahon para aralin ito,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a Palace briefing.

The proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) is undergoing deliberations by the bicameral conference committee to reconcile the versions of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Castro said President Marcos believes there is still ample time to pass the national budget, even as she said proposals to avoid a reenacted budget are welcome.

“Maganda po ang suhestiyon ni Senator Ping Lacson pero ang nais po talaga ng Pangulo ay hindi magkaroon ng reenacted budget,” Castro said.

“Ang good option, aralin mabuti… Maayos na budget na naipapasa on time. Hindi pa tapos ang Disyembre,” Castro added. ǀ PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aims to further strengthen the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Pag-Abot Program by extending support to more Filipino families in need of social welfare protection.

President Marcos on Wednesday led the DSWD Pag-Abot Program: Pasko Kasama ang Pangulo at the Pag-Abot Processing Center at Nasdake Building in Pasay City, where the President served meals and handed gifts to beneficiaries.

“Layunin ng pagbisita ng Pangulo na maipadama sa mga kababayan natin na kasama nila ang pamahalaan ngayong Pasko,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a Palace press briefing.

“Isang paalala na hindi sila nag-iisa at kailanman ay hindi sila makakalimutan ng gobyerno… Sa ilalim ng liderato ni Pangulong Marcos Jr., lahat ng mga programa na naglalayong magbigay-proteksiyon at pag-asa sa pamilyang Pilipino magtutuloy-tuloy sa susunod na taon,” Castro added.

The President inspected the facilities at the Pag-Abot Processing Center, including the family area, male and female quarters, mess hall, wellness area, holding and processing area, multi-purpose hall, and medical room.

At the DSWD Walang Gutom Kitchen at the ground floor of the Pag-Abot Processing Center, President Marcos interacted with the beneficiaries and celebrated the Yuletide season by serving meals and giving gifts.

A temporary shelter with 180-bed capacity, the Pag-Abot Processing Center became operational in April 2024.

Through the Pag-Abot Program, the DSWD reaches out to families and individuals living in the streets to provide social welfare protection services and interventions.

The program has served 1,772 beneficiaries in its pilot implementation in 2023, with 741 individuals successfully reintegrated with their families.

Institutionalized by President Marcos through Executive Order No. 52 series of 2024, the program is currently implemented in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon and Calabarzon, and will be expanded to Central Visayas next year.

The Walang Gutom Kitchen, a component of the Pag-Abot Program, serves as a food bank to address involuntary hunger among families and individuals in street situations.

Launched on December 16, 2024 at the Nasdake Building in Pasay City, the facility serves breakfast and lunch to approximately 250 to 300 walk-in beneficiaries daily, with the help of food donors.

The DSWD plans to expand the Walang Gutom Kitchen to cater to beneficiaries in Central Luzon and Central Visayas next year. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of Health (DOH) to extend the period of filing hospital claims with the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) from 60 days to 120 days to address reimbursement delays experienced by some health facilities.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Marcos ordered the “claims flexibility” to give hospitals more time to complete the documents required by PhilHealth.

President Marcos issued the directive in light of the reported more than P1 billion worth of return-to-hospital (RTH) claims that have not been paid.

“Ipinag-utos din ng Pangulo na i-extend ang maaaring period para makapag-claim ang ibang ospital, na-extend ito up to 120 days,” Castro said.

“Ito iyong tinatawag na claims flexibility at dahil dito ay natutugunan ng DOH, ng PhilHealth ang kanilang mga obligasyon. Basta ang nais lang din natin, ang mga ospital ay makapagbigay ng kanilang mga dokumento sa tamang oras at panahon,” Castro added.

The Palace Press Officer said the DOH attributed the returned PhilHealth claims to the hospitals’ failure to submit complete documents within the prescribed 60-day period.

“Patungkol diumano sa mga hindi agad nababayaran na mga claims sa PhilHealth, ayon sa DOH, mayroon kasing date na dapat na maibigay ang claims ng mga ospital. May period na within 60 days at karamihan sa ibang mga ospital ay hindi agad nakakapagbigay ng kanilang mga dokumento para sa kanilang claims,” Castro explained. | PND

Malacañang said the government is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted water supply amid management changes within the private concessionaire, PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.

In a Palace briefing on Tuesday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) led by Administrator Jose Moises Salonga is regularly reporting to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on its efforts to address consumers’ concerns.

Castro said LWUA is preparing a memorandum circular that will serve as a guideline to prevent service interruptions.

“Ang mga consumers ay hindi dapat singilin kung wala naman talagang serbisyong naibibigay ang PrimeWater. So, hintayin natin ang memorandum circular na ilalabas ng LWUA patungkol dito,” Castro said.

The Palace Press Officer said the government will continue to pursue possible lapses and liabilities of PrimeWater amid reports that the Lucio Co Group has taken over its management from the Villar Group.

“Ang mga lapses or liabilities ng PrimeWater as the management, kung ano ang kanilang maaaring mga kakulangan o naging liabilities ay dapat pong mapanagot. Depende ito sa reports or mga dokumentong maiipon para maipakita kung mayroon mang liability ang PrimeWater,” Castro said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has firmly dismissed misleading claims portraying the Philippines as a training hotspot for violent extremist groups, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the National Security Council (NSC) maintained there is no confirmation to allegations that the father-and-son suspects in the recent mass shooting in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia received training in the Philippines before the incident on December 14.

“The President strongly rejects the sweeping statement and the misleading characterization of the Philippines as the ISIS training hotspot,” Castro said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

According to Castro, the NSC said reports describing the Philippines as an ISIS hotspot were misleading since currently there is no validated report that the suspects in the Bondi Beach shooting received any form of training in the Philippines.

“Philippine authorities in coordination with international partners continue to verify all available information but no evidence has been presented to support claims that the country was used for terrorist training,” the NSC said in a statement read by Castro.

In its statement, the NSC emphasized that Philippine security forces have significantly weakened ISIS-affiliated groups since the 2017 Marawi siege, reflecting substantial improvements in the country’s domestic security environment.

“Both United Nations and the US Government assessments indicate that these groups now operate in a fragmented and diminished capacity. Violence in Mindanao is largely driven by historical conflicts and local clan disputes rather than the operational capacity of ISIS-affiliated organizations,” the NSC said.

The NSC pointed out the significant improvements achieved in the domestic security environment that were previously affected by terrorism.

“These developments reflect the sustained efforts of our security forces and the resilience of our communities in advancing peace, order, and development across the nation,” the NSC said.

The NSC added that President Marcos remains clear in his directive to the Anti-Terrorism Council and other member-agencies to stay vigilant to prevent any terrorist activity within Philippine territory and to continuously enhance cooperation with international partners to safeguard national security. | PND

“Be firm, be fair, be decisive while remaining fully respectful to the rights and dignity of every single Filipino.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday thus called on 50 newly promoted star-ranked officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to continuously improve their leadership and performance, stressing that higher rank demands greater commitment, responsibility, and public trust.

Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos said promotion is not merely recognition of past service, but a call to meet higher standards in leadership and accountability.

“As you climb up a rank, you must realize this is not merely a recognition of past performance, but rather, a clearer and higher expectation of how you must lead from this point forward,” President Marcos said.

The President noted that higher rank entails broader authority and greater influence over police operations, personnel welfare, and public trust.

“This is the stage where leadership is being measured by your judgment, restraint, and consistency in upholding the law,” President Marcos said.

The Chief Executive encouraged the newly promoted generals to continue improving themselves and avoid being complacent.

“So, I ask you to continue to improve yourselves—personally, professionally, institutionally. Do not be complacent,” the President said.

The President underlined the vital role of the police as the public’s key line of defense amid challenges such as social divides, political noise, community tensions, and digital and technological threats.

President Marcos then reaffirmed the administration’s continued support for the PNP in terms of reforms that would enhance their capability and boost their morale, citing the updated base pay and the increase in daily subsistence allowance to PhP350.

The President also vowed continued support for the welfare of police families, recognizing that their well-being is essential to the effective service of the nation.

As the holiday season approaches, President Marcos called for heightened vigilance and visible police presence in public areas, transport hubs, and communities to help ensure the safety of citizens and the peaceful celebration of the season.

“Tiyakin ninyo ang kaligtasan ng bawat mamamayan upang tunay nating maramdaman ang saya ng Kapaskuhan nang may kapanatagan at pagkakaisa, at may tunay na ligaya,” the President said.

“This season likewise reminds us that public service does not pause even in times of celebration. So, continue to serve with honor, lead with purpose, always act in the best interest of our great nation and of the Filipino people,” President Marcos added.

Of the 50 newly promoted star-ranked officers, six are Police Major Generals and 44 are Police Brigadier Generals. | PND