
PCO Press Briefing with MPC 09/03/2026
RTVMalacanang
Overview
This press briefing covers two main topics: the government's response to climate change and its initiatives in education. Regarding climate change, the administration is focusing on updating master plans for flood control, particularly for major river basins, to address current and future impacts. In education, a significant budget increase is allocated for the expanded career progression system to enhance teacher compensation and career advancement without leaving the classroom. The briefing also touches upon the weakening peso, government fiscal discipline, and the tragic incident involving Filipino seafarers.
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Chapters
- The Philippines, as a tropical archipelago, is highly vulnerable to severe climate change impacts like stronger typhoons and rising sea levels, threatening businesses, communities, and ecosystems.
- Failure to address climate change can lead to food shortages, high inflation, and health risks.
- The government is implementing strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to a warmer climate, aiming for a resilient and inclusive economy.
- Existing master plans for flood control, some dating back to the 1930s-1940s, are being reviewed and updated to align with current climate change realities, with a focus on major river basins.
- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is deploying high-capacity pumps and constructing sheet piles to address flooding on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).
- President Marcos Jr. has ordered the release of an additional Php 8.68 billion for the Department of Education (DepEd).
- This funding supports the expanded career progression (ECP) system for over 93,000 public school personnel.
- The ECP aims to provide teachers with career advancement and higher salaries without requiring them to leave their teaching positions.
- Funding is allocated for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, with a proposed Php 12.9 billion for the ECP in fiscal year 2027, a significant increase from previous years.
- This initiative underscores the President's commitment to improving the quality of education and supporting Filipino youth.
- The peso has reached a record low against the US dollar, influenced by broad US dollar strength and rising global oil prices.
- The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has intervened through rate hikes to manage inflation expectations and support the currency.
- The administration emphasizes fiscal discipline, prioritizing projects with high economic and social returns and avoiding wasteful spending.
- Boosting national savings through trimming non-essential government spending is being considered as a long-term solution.
- The government is implementing measures to mitigate the impact of rising prices on citizens, such as providing affordable rice and free services in hospitals and for agricultural transport.
- The President has been informed of the deaths of two Filipino seafarers due to a security incident in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The administration, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, is providing assistance and support to the families of the deceased seafarers, including benefits and insurance.
- The government assures continuous monitoring and reporting on the situation by Secretary Hans Kakdak.
- This incident highlights the risks faced by Filipino seafarers in dangerous maritime routes.
- Senator Imee Marcos raised concerns about numerous officials serving in acting capacities, advocating for permanent appointments to allow scrutiny by the Commission on Appointments.
- The Palace maintains that the President's appointments, including interim ones, comply with the law and due process.
- The President's prerogative in making appointments is highlighted as a constitutional right.
- The administration assures that all processes are being followed and no laws are being violated.
- President Marcos Jr. is actively involved in preparations for the 49th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.
- He will also lead the recognition of outstanding Filipino innovators receiving the Presidential Philippine Innovation Award.
- The Philippine Innovation Awards aim to provide innovators with mentorship, investment, and market access.
- The administration promotes a culture of collaboration and mutual support among Filipinos ('nag-tutulungan pataas').
Key takeaways
- The Philippine government is actively updating and implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, with a focus on flood control and greenhouse gas reduction.
- Significant financial resources are being allocated to the education sector to enhance teacher welfare and career development through the expanded career progression system.
- The administration is prioritizing fiscal discipline and strategic spending to manage economic challenges, including peso depreciation and rising global prices.
- The government is committed to supporting Filipino seafarers and their families in times of crisis, ensuring they receive necessary aid and benefits.
- The President's appointment powers are exercised within legal frameworks, with interim appointments being a part of the established process.
- Innovation is being fostered through awards and support systems to drive national progress and competitiveness.
- Active participation in international forums like the ASEAN Summit is key to addressing regional issues and advancing national interests.
Key terms
Test your understanding
- What are the primary climate change impacts the Philippines is expected to face, and how is the government preparing for them?
- How does the expanded career progression system aim to improve the situation for public school teachers?
- What factors are contributing to the weakening of the Philippine peso, and what measures is the government taking to address it?
- What is the government's response protocol when Filipino citizens, like seafarers, face critical incidents abroad?
- How does the administration justify the use of acting officials in government positions amidst calls for permanent appointments?