By Katrina Gracia Consebido
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, Sept.19, met with the Filipino community in New York, United States of America.
Marcos met with Filipinos in New York at the New Jersey Art Center to express his gratitude after winning the last national elections.
He also acknowledged overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) for their contribution to the economy and also for providing for their families in the Philippines.
During his speech, Marcos relayed his priorities during his term, including livelihood, agriculture, health, climate change, and food security.
According to Marcos he will continue to expand the infrastructure projects that former President Rodrigo Duterte started during his term.
“The backbone of the economy is its infrastructure. I have said before, I say it again, I will continue the Build, Build, Build flagship infrastructure program of the previous administration and wherever possible we will expand it,” Marcos said.
“Let us follow in the footsteps of a number of exceptional Filipino members of the Filipino community across the United States who have been carrying out very impactful projects for the benefit of our kababayans back home,” he added.
Meanwhile, Marcos urged the Filipino scientists, engineers, and technical experts to return to the country under the Balik Scientist Program of the Department of Science and Technology to showcase and share their skills to the younger generation.
“Let us reverse the brain drain. Ibalik natin ang galing ng Pilipino sa Pilipinas. And help bring the Philippines to heights it has not reached before,” Marcos said.
“HIndi natin makakamit ang hingangad nating pag-unlad ng ating Inang Bayan kung tayo ay watak-watak. Ito ang mensaheng dala-ito ang mensahe na dala ko para sa inyo: pagkakaisa ang kailangan para sa pag-unlad ng ating bansa,” he added. – gb
