President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that his government has already spent nearly P10 billion for developing Region 4-A since 2023 to strengthen the economy of the area further.

During his speech at the distribution of government assistance to farmers and fisherfolk in Batangas on Thursday, Marcos said there were already substantial investments and key infrastructure projects in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon (Calabarzon Region) within the year.

"We continue to work towards strengthening the economy of Calabarzon," Marcos said in Filipino.

"From 2023 to 2024, we have provided nearly 10 billion pesos for the Philippine Rural Development Plan here in Region 4-A," Marcos added.

The President detailed several major projects included in this initiative, designed to enhance connectivity and agricultural productivity in the region. Among these projects are the Taal Lake Circumferential Road and the Lobo Malabrigo–San Juan Laiya Road, which are expected to significantly improve transportation and boost local tourism.

In addition to road infrastructure, Marcos emphasized the nearing completion of critical irrigation projects in the neighboring province of Quezon.

Marcos also lauded the Batangueños for being resilient despite the challenges they faced during the El Niño phenomenon, which ended in June this year.

"My dear fellow citizens, despite the various challenges and numerous difficulties and life’s trials we face, we can overcome all of these if we continue to help one another," Marcos said.

"I believe that Batangueños are inherently brave—brave like barako coffee! You courageously face challenges for the welfare of your families," Marcos added.

During the event held at the FPJ Arena in the Municipality of San Jose, Marcos gave P10,000 in monetary assistance to thirty chosen recipients from the provinces of Batangas, Laguna, and Quezon.

Additionally, he provided P24,040,000 for Batangas, P17,420,000 for Laguna, and P28,810,000 for Quezon as presidential support to the three provincial governments.

Under the Department of Agriculture's (DA) Rice Program, Corn Program, High Value Crops Development Program, National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program, Livestock Program, and Organic Agriculture Program, a number of government agencies also provided various aid, including farm machinery, equipment, fiber boats, seeds, fishing cages, etc.