08 June 2006

(Shanghai) Vice President Noli De Castro called on all Filipinos in China to support the country’s bid to end poverty in his address during the National Day reception dinner at the JC Mandarin Hotel in Shanghai yesterday, commemorating the declaration of Philippine Independence.

Citing recent gains resulting from the government’s reform program such as increased revenues from the expanded value-added tax and prudent government spending, a more dynamic stock market, an “under-control” inflation and positive outlook of international rating agencies, the Vice President said that the country’s macroeconomic figures “have never been this good since the Asian financial crisis.”

“Yet the biggest challenge remains to be poverty,” he admitted.

De Castro said that the benefits of development “must be felt by our people.”

“This means more roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, houses, transportation facilities, jobs, basic services and many more things that citizens expect from their government,” he added.

He assured the Filipino community that the government is working on these areas, with the support of neighbors like China.

“I call on all of you, my countrymen, to link arms with us so that we can attain our destiny—a progressive and peaceful Philippines,” he said.

De Castro also attended a dinner in Beijing on June 6 hosted by Philippine Ambassador Sonia C. Brady, in which he spoke to Filipino businessmen, professionals and students currently based in the China.

“I urge you to continue working hard not just for your own advancement but also for our country’s honor and pride,” he told the Filipino community.

He said that while some “lingering problems” hamper efforts to go full-blast on the growth agenda, he sees these as “signs of a working democracy.”

“I am confident that our people will continue to build on our successes in the years to come. And I hope that you will join us in building a stronger and better Philippines,” he added.

Ref no. VPMEDIA 06-061