President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday presented his administration’s eight-point socio-economic agenda aimed at dramatically cutting poverty incidence and elevating the country to upper-middle-income status.

“Our socio-economic agenda charts out the government’s policy and its different directions that will be used to tackle both near- and medium-term priorities,” said Marcos at the Philippine Economic Briefing in New York City.

The President said his administration is ramping up efforts to address the impact of inflation. 

“In the near term, we will address the impact of growing inflationary pressures due to rising global prices of key commodities such as food and fuel. We will ensure domestic food security by boosting local food production and continue the provision of targeted support for sectors most affected by the rise in fuel prices,” said Marcos. 

Marcos also expressed confidence that the Philippine economy is on track to outperform its Asian neighbors.

“I thank you for your continuing interest in the Philippines, which we are touting as with great confidence as Asia’s fastest rising economic star,” he told American business leaders and investors. 

In his six-day working visit to the United States, Marcos also met with members of the Filipino community to thank them for their support and contribution to the Philippine economy. 

He also delivered a historic speech at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, where he raised urgent action on climate change and food security. (PND)