Marcos gains in foreign policy lauded

by Kristina Maralit ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has made meaningful gains in terms of directing the government’s foreign policy, carrying out important government programs and ensuring media freedom, a political analyst observed.

University of Santo Tomas political science professor Froilan Calilung made the assessment as the president capped his first year in office.

is one thing that I think will really put further, you know, the president in a very good position because as we can see, the movement of our foreign policy was different under then-President [Rodrigo] Duterte,” he said.

Under Marcos’ watch, the Philippines is pivoting toward the United States, attesting to his decisiveness to pave his own path when it comes to foreign relations, Calilung said.

PH. So, I think they are somewhat being sustained.” Calilung also lauded the administration’s unceasing efforts to uphold the rule of law amid some challenges.

This is particularly crucial, he stressed, since it will help entice foreign investors to the country which would not happen if there is a perceived breakdown in the peace and order situation, he said.

9184 and its implementing guidelines “defeats the purpose of the Procurement Law, which is to standardize and to improve transparency in the procurement process.”

In response to state auditors’ comments, the OVP said that its purchases were done through reimbursement because of the immediate need to have the satellite offices ready with equipment.

“Due to the time constraints imposed by RA No. 9184, the Procurement Unit was unable to process requests at the time of opening of the (satellite offices) on July 1, 2022,” the OVP said in the audit report.

“It was agreed during the discussion meeting with the

Administrative and Financial Services Office Group heads that reimbursement would be the best option to address the immediate need,” they added.

The OVP in 2022 launched satellite offices in several regions to expand the delivery of its services, particularly its medical, hospitalization and burial assistance.

These satellite offices were launched July 1, 2022 — the first day of Vice President Sara Duterte’s term.

The OVP also said in the audit report that it would comply with the provisions of the Procurement Act in its future purchases. (Philstar. com) n