Duterte to sustain war vs drugs, corruption; boost economic growth
After an "excellent" performance in the past year, President Duterte is committed to sustain the crackdown on illegal drugs and corruption, to boost economic growth and generate local jobs this new year.
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo assured the public that in pursuing these priorities, the President would not be distracted by the start of the election period this year.
"2019 is an election year but it will not deter the President in focusing on his priorities of fighting criminality, illegal drugs and corruption," he said in an interview with the Manila Bulletin.
"We expect to do more in the remaining years of the President's term to continue fulfilling his vow as well as satisfying the clamor of the Filipinos for genuine and meaningful change," he added.
Build Build Build program
The government would also continue to implement various projects aiming to improve the country's infrastructure network this year, according to Panelo.
"The Build Build Build program of the Duterte administration is also in full swing which will continue to create more jobs and boost the country's economic growth," he said.
Panelo earlier declared that the President "performed excellently" in 2018 following the government's accomplishments under his leadership.
Among the significant achievements cited by Panelo were the country's strong
and growing economy, signing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the labor protection pact for Filipino workers in Kuwait, and reduction in the country’s crime rate.
He also said the President pursued an independent foreign policy by "removing our country's subservience to the United States and improving our relations with all countries including China, Russia and those in Southeast Asia.”
He also said there was “less corruption now” after the President fired several government and military officials, including “longtime friends and allies” for corruption or incompetence. He noted that it was up to the Office of the Ombudsman to prosecute these persons involved in alleged irregularities.