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The robust public and private spending will continue to support economic growth in 2019 and lay the foundation for our long-term development.
I am particularly optimistic about the new roads and bridges being built to link towns and provinces, and the modern airports being developed in our major cities. While there are efforts to upgrade the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City, similar initiatives are being pursued to enhance the capacity of regional gateways, such as Clark, Laoag, Legazpi, Cebu, Davao, Panglao (Bohol), Puerto Princesa, Iloilo, Bacolod and Laguindingan (Misamis Oriental).

The people have spoken. By an overwhelming “YES” vote of 1,540,017 as opposed to only 198,750 “NO” votes, the Bangsamoro Organic Law was ratified in plebiscites held last January 21 and February 6.

Many Filipinos are now beginning to appreciate the soft side of President Rodrigo Duterte despite his tough stance on his war on drugs. Mr. Duterte, not to the surprise of many, also cares about the environment and its benefits to the population, tourism and the economy in general. His initial success in cleaning up Boracay Island gained the support of the Filipino people and was lauded here and abroad. It started the momentum to rehabilitate other tourist attractions in the Philippines.