In one single swift action, PRRD solved the tax question that has been hounding the BIR and the DOF for a time pertaining to the Mighty Corp tax obligations.
In his second SONA last July 24, Pres. Digong pronounced that the government agreed to settle Mighty Corp’s tax liabilities for just P25B which he will earmarked for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
This stance assuages weary thoughts that occupy people’s minds, especially Marawi residents whose houses, properties and businesses were razed by the on-going bloody conflict between government forces and the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayaf groups.
Duterte’s resolved will ease the burden off Congress who normally will appropriate funds for the Marawi reconstruction as well as from the President’s economic managers who will have to scrounge around for available funds, if there are any.
PRRD is not keen on asking nor waiting for alms coming from neighboring friendly countries and allies, considering that the previous administration failed to finish its job rescuing thousands of victims of typhoon Yolanda in Leyte, despite the billions it received from international donors.
Thus, our brothers and sisters from Marawi will not have to wait for long because as soon as the violent confrontation ebbs, reconstruction will actually begin so that these innocent victims could have a fresh start.
And still the good news is that, despite negative warnings and advisories from countries who fear for the lives of their citizens who intend to visit the Philippines, tourist arrivals did not come to a halt.
In the latest World Tourism Barometer, the United Nations World Tourism Organization revealed surprisingly that the country has moved up four places (from 49th) to 45th in tourist arrivals.
Wow! One year ago, the number of tourists was only 5.9 million that fell short of the 6M targeted for that year. But that did not stop the Philippines from moving up in its global ranking.
I think more spending should be focused on tourism infrastructure in anticipation of a positive outlook that PRRD continues to exemplify.
Our country is now at the center of global discussions as the Chief Executive has announced an independent foreign policy that is now attracting rich countries like Russia and China to come in for a look and see. Who knows if other countries in Europe may just follow.
If I recall, there was a time when Pres. Marcos, before imposing martial rule, attempted to veer towards Eastern Europe for new markets. In fact, he also opened the doors for the establishment of our diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.
As the peso falls, it will complement our exports and attract attention from foreign importers because they become cheaper in relation to the dollar.
Senators are also encouraging the Duterte government to spend more instead of keeping the money in government coffers as the previous administration did, to project the image that the government has plenty of money.
Public consumption will generate income opportunities as well as provide employment for the thousands of new college graduates.
The P3.77 trillion 2018 national budget will ensure that infrastructure such as schools, roads, bridges, airports and much-needed mass transportation like railways and trains will proceed as programmed.
“Build! Build! Build!” should not be stymied as the Pubic-Private Partnership of PNoy went.
For Marawi City and her citizens, just be patient. The country is learning a painful lesson.
When the din and dust of the rebellion finally settles down, a brighter future for your children and your children’s children is in the making. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) Prov. 23:9: “Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
