The marked improvement in the economy the country is experiencing right now is due to the radical fiscal reforms implemented by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the first six years of her administration, Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Ignacio R. Bunye said today.

"The President’s fiscal reforms have resulted in a stronger peso, reduced budget deficit and public debt and increased foreign investments," Bunye said in his weekly column "The View From the Palace" which comes out tomorrow (Monday).

These fiscal reforms include the Expanded Value Added Tax (EVAT) Law which increases the rate of VAT imposed on goods and services from 10 to 12 percent and the National Attrition Law which pushes revenue generating agencies to meet their collection targets or face stiff penalties.

Bunye said the President was upbeat and "understandably proud" because the country has posted a record 24 continuous quarters of GDP (gross domestic product) growth.

A recent study showed that the Arroyo administration has garnered an average GDP growth rate of 4.37 percent, besting those of the previous four administrations.

"She (the President) is understandably proud that the country is on the road to permanent economic growth and stability, as shown by 24 continuous quarters of GDP growth," Bunye stressed.

He pointed out, however, that despite the lofty figures, the President is not just one to sit on her laurels and be contented.

"One goal for the President is to create even more jobs than the 1.2 million jobs created in the last 12 months," Bunye said.

He added that the President’s fervent wish is "to one day break the cycle of Filipinos going abroad as a matter of need."

"While the significant economic contributions of our overseas workers are valued, the President would also like our brain trust of professionals and skilled workers to return to the country where they can make an even greater contribution," Bunye said.

"Leaving the Philippines, she says, should be a career choice and not a matter of necessity," the Press Secretary added.

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As the country’s economy continues to grow, the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is determined to remain focused on improving the lives of the poor and meeting the "challenges of hunger and poverty," according to Press Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye.

"President Arroyo is keenly focused on bearing down on the incidence of poverty and hunger through a multi-pronged campaign that cuts deeply into vulnerable areas and sectors," Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesperson, said in his weekly column, "The View From the Palace," which comes out Monday.

"The government will continue to work with the active institutions in the church and civil society and field all available hands on deck in the schools and the community, and even soldiers in the field – down to the last barangay served – to carry this campaign forward," the Press Secretary added.

As part of its anti-poverty and hunger mitigation program, the Arroyo administration has been implementing the food-for-school program which provides rice to poor families through their children in Grade 1, pre-schools and day care centers.

The government is also expanding the implementation of the "Tindahan Natin" program along with the establishment of more barangay food terminals where the poor can buy cheap food and basic commodities.

"While the economy surges ahead, the President is determined to see to it that no one is left behind; and that every Filipino in dire need will receive a dividend from growth," Bunye said.

"We are aware that there are no quick-fixes to the challenges of hunger and poverty but we shall follow the fastest and shortest path to bring relief to the most affected. The Cabinet has been put on notice by the Chief Executive and the train of programs is already rolling at good speed," he stressed.

Bunye had said earlier that "the President‘s signing into law of this year’s budget (of P1.126 trillion) will increase the flow of social returns to the people in terms of adequate food on the table, decent jobs and broader access to basic social services."

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