As the curtains fall on 2024, we take stock of the year’s defining moments—political, economic, and socio-cultural—that have significantly affected the lives of every Filipino. This year was marked by significant gains and persistent challenges, all of which demand strategic action as we move into 2025.
On the political front, the House of Representatives and the Senate conducted high-profile public hearings that thrust into the limelight Vice President Sarah Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte. Concerns were raised on the confidential funds assigned to the Vice President’s office that also covered her previous stint as concurrent Department of Education Secretary.
Former President Duterte also appeared before the Senate and the House to answer questions pertaining to his administration’s conduct of an all-out anti-drug campaign, specifically Oplan Tokhang, that was implemented by the Philippine National Police (PNP) then led by now Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ de la Rosa. As an offshoot of the Quad Comm hearings in the House, remedial legislation has been proposed; meantime, the Department of Justice is evaluating information pertaining to the possible filing of court cases.
The economic sphere saw both resilience and recalibration. Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan has expressed the view that even if Philippine GDP expands by an average of 5.9 to 6.1 percent for the full year, this would still be a “very respectable growth” compared to most emerging economies. The resurgence of tourism, aided by eased travel restrictions and aggressive marketing campaigns, provided a vital boost to local economies.
Despite these achievements, inflationary pressures, exacerbated by volatile global markets, posed challenges to household incomes. To mitigate these effects, targeted subsidies and price stabilization measures were rolled out, though more comprehensive strategies are needed. Policymakers must focus on strengthening the agricultural sector, promoting energy independence, and ensuring equitable access to economic opportunities to sustain and amplify growth.
Socio-culturally, 2024 witnessed the celebration of cultural heritage, with indigenous communities’ involvement in national conversations about identity and diversity. Initiatives to preserve endangered languages and traditional art forms reflected a renewed commitment to cultural pride. At the same time, the younger generation’s growing awareness on climate change, gender equality, and mental health issues supports the movement toward a more inclusive and progressive society.
Yet, social inequality and gaps in basic services continue to hinder more robust socio-cultural progress. Access to quality education and healthcare remains uneven, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. Given continuing government budget constraints, the focus has shifted to forging practicable public-private partnerships and sustained investment in human capital development.
As we enter 2025, the path ahead is both promising and fraught with challenges. To forestall headwinds, the government and private sector must work in unison on the following: first, institutionalize good governance by enhancing transparency, reducing corruption, and fostering participatory decision-making; second, strengthen economic resilience by diversifying industries and investing in green technology; and third, empower communities to pursue local initiatives on employment that boost micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The Philippines has always thrived on the strength and resilience of its people. As we bid farewell to 2024, let us carry forward the lessons, celebrate the gains, and face the future with hope and determination. With clarity of purpose and collective will, 2025 can be a year of greater progress—where every Filipino, regardless of status or circumstance, benefits from the nation’s growth.
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