Lecture Notes on the Address

Introduction

• Greetings to former Presidents, Senate members, House Representatives, Chief Justice, Justices, diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries.
• Focus on addressing the hardships faced by Filipinos due to high rice prices.

Agriculture Sector

• Highest level of poverty since 1987, but efforts to boost local production continue.
• Distribution of seeds, fertilizers, and support to farmers and fishermen.
• Temporary rice price ceilings and tariff reductions as short-term measures.
• Ongoing reforms in farming and agrarian land titles distribution.
• Smuggled agricultural products worth over P2.7 billion confiscated.

Infrastructure and Disaster Preparedness

• Completion of 5,500 flood control projects.
• Construction of 100 evacuation centers; Disaster Response Command Center operational.
• Revival and expansion of irrigation projects, including solar-powered irrigation.

Energy and Connectivity

• Upgrades in power and internet services; Free Wi-Fi program expanded.
• Completion of national fiber backbone Phase 1.
• National Cyber Security Plan launched.
• New power transmission lines in Luzon and Visayas completed.

Transport and Infrastructure Projects

• 12,000 km of roads and 1,200 bridges built/upgraded.
• Major expressways and bridges nearing completion.
• Significant progress in railway projects, including Metro Manila subway.

Education and Health

• Increase in budget for education and training.
• National learning recovery program ongoing.
• Enhancements in teacher welfare and career progression.
• Expansion of healthcare facilities, including specialty centers for cancer treatment.
• Free generic medicines available through PhilHealth.

Social Protection and Employment

• Employment rate increased to 95.9%, with significant quality job growth.
• Social protection programs such as 4Ps showing effectiveness.
• Wage increases and benefits for government employees and workers.

Tourism and OFWs

• Infrastructure and digital reforms to boost tourism.
• Support and services for OFWs, including benefits for their families.

Peace and Security

• Decrease in crime rate and improvement in crime solution efficiency.
• Strong law enforcement measures against illegal drugs and smuggling.
• Ongoing peace and community development programs.

Economic Status and Prospects

• Significant drop in poverty rate to 15.5%.
• Investment-led growth with focus on renewable energy and digital infrastructure.
• Efficient tax and non-tax revenue collection.

Conclusion

• Urgent need to address high food prices and social issues.
• Ban on POGOs due to illegal activities.
• Call for vigilance and principle among officials and citizens.

End of Address

Adjournment

• Joint session adjourned by the Senate and House of Representatives.