President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to investing in the future of Filipinos as he emphasized that a well-trained workforce is the Philippines’ biggest “asset” while managing the national debt.

In the BBM Podcast Episode 3, which aired on Wednesday, President Marcos also said that his administration’s anti-corruption campaign would contribute to managing the public debt, which stood at PhP17.27 trillion as of June.

The President likened running the government to operating a business that incurs debts alongside earnings in order to invest in expansion.

“‘Yung utang na ‘yun, ginagamit pang-invest para palakihin ang negosyo, para pagandahin. Huwag natin tinitingnan ‘yun lang trillion,” the Chief Executive said.

“It’s not an absolute number. Like any corporation, may balance sheet ‘yan. The balance sheet has assets and liabilities. ‘Pag tinitingnan lamang ‘yung utang, tinitingnan lang ‘yung liabilities, tingnan ninyo ‘yung asset,” the President continued.

“Nadadagdagan ‘yung asset natin. Ako, pinakamalaking asset natin ‘yung Pilipino, ‘yung manggagawang Pilipino,” President Marcos stressed.

Investing in training will help Filipino workers secure not only ordinary jobs but more competitive positions, the Chief Executive said.

President Marcos also said that his administration’s anti-corruption campaign will aid in managing the national debt by ensuring funds will finance vital projects.

“Basta’t ‘yung pera ng Pilipinas ay ginagamit sa tamang paraan… ‘Pag talagang mahigpit tayo at tama ang gamit nung ating pondo, mayroon tayo,” the President said.

Last Friday, Malacañang commended the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for generating PhP 84.5 billion in revenues, which is PhP140 million more than its target of PhP 84.4 billion for July. | PND