Fred M. Lobo
PRESIDENT GMA says recent economic gains such as increased tax collection, growing OFW remittances, and the robust peso and stock market could help deter destabilization and improve the delivery of basic services.
Have money, will travel.
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"The economy is the best argument for purging the poison from the political and electoral systems of the country to usher in a stable and formidable state that can stand up to adventurism, destabilization, insurgency, crime, and terrorism," PGMA emphasizes.
Quickly purge the poison – and push the nation!
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Finance Secretary Margarito Teves reports that this time both the BIR and the BoC are meeting tax collection targets.
Thanks to the Lateral Attrition Law that will reward or punish tax collectors.
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Customs Chief Napoleon Morales assures the public that the campaign against smugglers will continue without letup to raise more revenues and check dumping.
Plug the holes and keep government coffers full.
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PGMA hails OFWs for increased remittances this March in time for graduation.
Congrats to the graduates, congrats to the economy!
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The Bangko Sentral reports that the country posted a hefty balance of payments surplus of .03 billion for the first two months of this year due to increased remittances, foreign investments, and borrowings.
More dollars make us smile.
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More tourists, surpassing last year’s figure of 2.6 million, are expected to visit the country this year, says DoT Secretary Joseph Durano.
Credit the "Philippines: More Than You Can Imagine" ad campaign abroad.
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Agriculture Secretary Ding Panganiban projects increased rice and corn production this semester by 7 percent and 21 percent, respectively, among other agricultural gains.
Food for the stomach and jobs for the poor.
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BFAR Director Boy Sarmiento reports that tuna production is increasing in Southern Mindanao through joint fishing ventures between Filipino and Indonesian businessmen, thus providing more jobs to both Christians and Muslims.
Fish and peace be with you, brothers!
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RP-China trade volume is to reach billion this year, with the Philippines enjoying a big surplus, says the Chinese Embassy.
Yes to bigger trade and stronger RP-Sino ties.
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RP-US ties will likely improve further with the posting of new US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Anne Kenny, observers say.
Diplomatic ease is seen between PGMA and Kenny – just between ladies.
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The country’s natural gas could serve as sustainable fuel for some 20 years, say experts.
Let’s tap it. Have more power – and go cleaner.
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In the meantime, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Generoso Senga advises the country’s soldiers just to concentrate on their avowed duties and responsibilities.
Translation: Stay out of politics and help improve the economy!
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