While President Marcos Jr.’s administration has made notable efforts to stabilize the price of rice—a fundamental promise from his campaign—the reality on the ground tells a starkly different story. The recent Pulse Asia survey reveals a mere 4% of Filipinos believe the government has succeeded in reducing rice prices to the targeted P20 per kilo. This statistic is not just a number; it represents a widespread dissatisfaction among the populace, who see this failure as symptomatic of a larger governmental inefficacy.
This dissatisfaction is further exacerbated by the soaring rice prices reported just a day before the survey results, with a 24% increase in the average wholesale price of rice. Such figures starkly contrast the administration’s public commendations of its economic team. It paints a picture of a leadership disconnected from the actual economic hardships faced by its citizens. The disconnect is glaring, with 76% of Filipinos disapproving of the government’s handling of inflation, indicating a crisis of confidence in the current administration’s priorities and capabilities.
Amidst economic promises and political maneuvers, the Philippines continues to lag in crucial areas that directly impact its growth and international competitiveness. Foreign investment remains tepid due to persistent issues of bureaucracy, corruption, and infrastructural inadequacies. The educational sector is not faring much better, with Filipino students’ comprehension levels and overall IQ scores falling behind international benchmarks, revealing a troubling gap in education quality and competitiveness. This decline is further exacerbated by a glaring absence of robust governmental initiatives aimed at reforming the education system or combating the deep-seated corruption that has only worsened post-Duterte administration. The need for decisive and transparent policy-making has never been more critical to reverse these declines and restore confidence both at home and abroad.
As we move forward, it’s imperative to scrutinize the promises made against the realities delivered. The elections in 2028 will present an opportunity for Filipinos to voice their concerns not just through surveys but at the polls. The ongoing economic strain underscores the need for leaders who do not merely propagate promises but actualize them. The narrative of progress must be rewritten by competent leaders who align their actions with the public’s pressing needs, fostering a government that truly reflects the will and welfare of its people.
Let’s make sure we really scrutinize who we vote for to avoid the kind of fiasco we have now in the Government.
