Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda of Albay on Tuesday called on all those involved in the Monday elections to respect the people’s will.
“Although results are still trickling in, it is very clear that the Filipino people have made a resounding choice, and that choice deserves to be respected. That is the essence of the democratic process,” Salceda said in a statement.
“I have promised the people of Albay, and the Filipino people, that I will continue to offer what I believe to be the best advice on how to help us through this period of economic challenge, regardless of who becomes the next President. I intend to keep that promise.”
Salceda said he would submit to the President-elect “a comprehensive plan for fiscal and economic recovery – “so that what we build out of this crisis is a stronger, more resilient, and more equitable economy. I have a tax plan and a public and private investment plan that I will submit to the next President in the coming days.”
He added: “There are three all-important concerns for the first one hundred days of the next President: Inflation, unemployment, and economic growth. We will have to halt the momentum in price increases, create strong and well-paid jobs, and maximize our gross domestic product growth potential.”
Salceda, who was reelected to a fresh three-year term, said he would advise the the next President on these issues.
“I also hope to continue helping the government with crucial economic reforms.”
In the same statement, Salceda said, “When the politics becomes less important, the policies will begin to matter more. That moment will certainly come after elections. I hope the incoming administration revisits the series of columns I have issued over the past few weeks – on the economy, on taxes, on agriculture, on foreign policy – as I will certainly articulate those same thoughts again when the President-elect seeks my advice again.”
“I will do my utmost so that foreign investors and Philippine businesspersons alike will feel confident about the new President.”
“We have very little control over the past, but the future remains wide open for our efforts. A country that seeks greatness must be obsessed with the future, and all the opportunities it presents.”
Salceda also sent his well wishes to Marcos. “As it appears that Former Senator Marcos will become the next President, I wish him the very best. A successful Marcos presidency will be the success of the country as well.”