House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Speaker’s office)

As if giving advanced testimonial to the State of the Nation Address (SONA), ranking congressmen led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez hailed President Marcos for the "remarkable economic accomplishments" under his administration. 

House leaders praised in particular the administration’s success in establishing the Philippines as Southeast Asia’s strongest economy. 

“Under President Marcos' leadership, our economy is thriving. We are seeing the highest growth rates in decades, which means more jobs and better opportunities for every Filipino,” Romualdez said in a joint statement on Sunday afternoon, July 21. 

He noted that the economy posted a 7.6 percent growth rate in 2022 and continued to grow by 6.4 percent in the first quarter of 2023. 

The House chief added that multilateral financial institutions like the World Bank have upgraded their economic forecasts for the Philippines. This reflects the country's robust economic trajectory. 

President Marcos will deliver his third SONA on Monday, July 22. Considered the official report to the nation, the speech is expected to play up the Chief Executive's accomplishments. 

For his part, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. underscored the transformative impact of infrastructure development under the "Build-Better-More" program. 

“Our infrastructure projects are transforming the landscape of our nation. They are not just roads and bridges; they are pathways to a brighter future for all Filipinos," said the representative of Pampanga’s 3rd district. 

Gonzales says that projects like the Luzon Spine Expressway Network, which will cut travel time from Ilocos to Bicol from 20 hours to nine hours, and the construction of mega-bridges connecting various islands, are enhancing national connectivity and efficiency. 

Deputy Speaker Quezon 2nd district Rep. David "Jay-jay" Suarez stressed the administration's commitment to securing the country's energy future through sustainable practices. 

Suarez observed that the administration has added new power plants and is pushing for renewable energy to help address power requirements. 

“The shift to renewable energy is a testament to our commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. We are not just meeting today's needs but also protecting the environment for future generations," he said. 

Meanwhile, Majority Leader Zamboanga City 2nd district Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix" Dalipe highlighted the administration's dedication to supporting those most in need. He cited the revival of Kadiwa stores to stabilize food prices and housing initiatives like Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino to provide affordable homes. 

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“The Marcos administration is making sure no Filipino is left behind. From affordable housing to accessible food supplies, we are making tangible improvements in the lives of our people," Dalipe said. 

Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, mentioned the administration's success in positioning the Philippines as a global investment hub. He hailed Marcos for scoring huge investments in international economic missions and strengthening diplomatic ties with major economies like the United States (US) and China. 

“Our proactive approach in international relations is paying off. The investments we are attracting are creating jobs and driving economic growth, securing a better future for our nation," Co said. 

Overall, Romualdez says fhe economic policies and initiatives under President Marcos are leading to significant and positive changes for the Philippines 

“We are proud of the progress we have made, and we remain committed to building a stronger, more prosperous Philippines for all. Together, we will continue to rise and overcome any challenge,” the Speaker concluded.