Social equity, gov’t culpability given vent

A commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos through targeted social and infrastructure initiatives was demonstrated in the activities of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last week.

On 16 June, he directed the Department of Transportation to increase train fare discounts for senior citizens and students from 20 percent to 50 percent for the three elevated train systems, effective 20 June, aligning the Philippines with global practices.

Marcos also rejected a two-year closure plan for EDSA repairs, deeming it “unacceptable” due to the difficulties for commuters and motorists, and ordered government agencies to leverage technology to expedite the rehabilitation while minimizing disruptions.

Accountability and inclusivity in governance were underlined. On 17 June, he warned government officials that underperformance would lead to removal, stating, “If you fail to perform, you’re out,” in the BBM Podcast Episode 2. This coincided with the voluntary resignations of 17 Presidential Communications Office officials.

The President’s week was tracked in a joint report by Daily Tribune and the Presidential Communications Office’s Bureau of Communications Services.

16 June

50percent train fare discount

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. raised the fare discount for seniors and students from 20 percent to 50 percent for LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3, effective 20 June. He said this aligns with global practices and supports students and the elderly.

2 years of suffering ‘unacceptable’

The President called the two-year EDSA closure plan “unacceptable” and directed government agencies to use technology to speed up the rehabilitation without heavily disrupting traffic.

Less sugar for children, please

Citing rising chronic kidney disease cases, Marcos urged parents and teachers to teach children proper diets early and asked food industry players to reduce sugar in meals.

Swift classroom construction

Marcos tasked the DepEd and DPWH to accelerate classroom repairs and construction, particularly in “Last Mile Schools” in far-flung, conflict-affected areas.

17 June

Quick 911 response time checked

The President observed the PNP’s emergency response system via live feeds from policemen’s body cams during a 911 response demonstration.

PBBM: ‘If you fail to perform, you’re out’

On his podcast, Marcos warned public officials that failure to perform means removal from office, reinforcing that “governance is no longer business as usual.”

17 PCO execs quit

Malacañang confirmed the resignation of at least 17 Presidential Communications Office officials, including Senior Undersecretary Ana Puod, citing personal reasons.

PWDs get e-shuttle services

The DSWD launched a disability-friendly e-shuttle service in Quezon City with 20 electric vehicles, promoting inclusivity in public transport.

18 June

Safe routes to repatriate OFWs

Marcos said the government identified safe passageways for overseas Filipino workers in light of the rising tensions between Israel and Iran. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac flew to Jordan to coordinate the evacuation.

19 June

Better tourism experience

In Osaka, Marcos met with Japanese tourism stakeholders and pledged better infrastructure and connectivity in the Philippines. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized Japan’s role as a key tourism market.

100 percent of schools internet-connected

From Flora A. Ylagan High School in Quezon City, Marcos held a teleconference with 10 remote schools, reaffirming his goal of full internet connectivity in schools.

‘No Filipino left behind’

The President directed the DFA, DMW and OWWA to ensure immediate support and safe evacuations for OFWs affected by the Middle East conflict.

‘Benteng Bigas’ going nationwide

Marcos said the P20-per-kilo rice program “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” is expanding nationwide through Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets to strengthen food security.

No more impeach talk

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President is not open to a dialogue on the impeachment issue, stressing his firm position to avoid political distractions.

Anti-bullying strengthened

The DSWD is now the lead agency in addressing student mental health and online and in-person bullying, following the President’s directive to prioritize child protection.

Increased police visibility hailed

Parents and students of Ramon Magsaysay High School expressed their gratitude for the enhanced police presence, saying it improved campus safety.

20 June

Palace lauds Navy for drug haul

Malacañang praised the Philippine Navy after it seized P10 billion worth of shabu off Zambales, in line with the President’s directive to go after major drug sources and destroy seized narcotics quickly.

12-ton vehicles on San Juanico Bridge by December

The rehabilitation of San Juanico Bridge will allow vehicles up to 12 tons to traverse the bridge by December. Marcos acknowledged the hardship caused by the years of neglect.

‘Fix the problem, not the blame’

Citing the recent power crisis in Siquijor, the President emphasized the governance philosophy focused on solutions not finger-pointing. His 11 June visit initiated swift interventions.

42% ‘not poor’ Pinoys reflect reforms

Two surveys showed a rise to 42 percent of Filipinos identifying as “not poor” since Marcos took office. He aims to cut the poverty incidence to nine percent by 2028.

Tutors feel lifting of admin duties

Teachers at Flora A. Ylagan High School thanked the President for lifting their administrative burdens, allowing them to focus on lesson prep and student engagement.