Marcos to prioritize social programs, education in final stretch of term

Metro Manila, Philppines - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said his administration will focus on strengthening social programs and improving education in the last three years of his term, pointing out that ensuring basic needs and quality learning are key to building a stronger nation.

In a recent podcast interview, Marcos laid out his administration’s priorities through 2028, saying that access to health care, food, and shelter remains the government’s foremost concern.

“Social programs are important. People must have a good healthcare system, food to eat, and shelter as much as possible. People have to be able to survive - let’s start there,” the president said.

Marcos said the government will intensify efforts in education, describing it as “the most important investment” for the future.

“You cannot have a successful society without a well-educated society. I’m putting a great deal of attention and the government’s focus on education,” he said.

The president recalled that the Philippines once had the highest literacy rate in Asia and was widely recognized for English proficiency, saying the nation should aim to reclaim that standing.

“Let’s get back there. So many Filipinos have the potential to advance, but they lack the means and the support. That’s what we need to provide,” Marcos said.

He noted the importance of preparing the next generation to compete both locally and globally.

“We have to make sure that the generations to come are well-educated and able to compete internationally - kaya naman ng Pilipino ’yan,” he added.

Marcos said Filipinos excel abroad when given proper training, noting the need for a system that aligns education and workforce development with international standards.