IN HIS third state of the nation, President Rodrigo Duterte boasted the aid brought by Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (Train) Law to Filipino people.
“Train is already helping poor families and senior citizens cope up with rising prices. We have distributed unconditional cash transfers to four million people, and we will help six million more this year,” Duterte said yesterday at Batasang Pambansa.
Duterte added the implementation of Train law is needed in addressing the progress Duterte is envisioning for the country.
“You have made funds available to build better roads and bridges, and improve health and education, and strengthen our safety and security,” Duterte said in his speech.
But he also added that even if some groups detest in the implementation of the Train, the tax law is needed in ensuring economic growth.
“Some have incorrectly blamed our efforts toward a fairer tax system for all the price increases in the past months, and some irresponsibly suggesting to stop Train’s implementation. We cannot and should not. We need this for sustainable growth that leaves no Filipino left behind,” Duterte said.
Initiatives had already been created in order to subsidize the poor Filipino families affected by the increase of prices and services
In his speech Duterte said, “Following the one-peso discount per liter in gas stations, we have also started releasing fuel vouchers to public utility jeeps and other valid franchises. Further, we have fast-tracked the distribution of NFA rice to provide affordable rice for all.”
Duterte mentioned that they have already started releasing fuel vouchers to public utility jeeps and other valid franchises, and furthered fast-track in ensuring a more affordable price for rice from the National Food Authority.
“This year, we are giving P149 billion worth of subsidies to the poor and vulnerable. Next year, the amount will be increased to P169 billion. But no amount of subsidy can help the poor if some businesses take advantage of the situation to make more money. I ask businesses to cooperate with us in charging a fair price,” Duterte added.