MANILA, March 10 (PNA) — The Palace said it welcomes the assessment by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this week adding it will cooperate on the review of the country’s economy.
It was reported that a team from the IMF is set to visit the Philippines this week for its annual evaluation of the economy.
The IMF review will focus on the ongoing reconstruction efforts after Typhoon “Yolanda,” the country’s external accounts and the government efforts to make economic growth trickle down to the poor.
Asked by reporters if he thinks the country will pass the review, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said he can’t predict the outcome but the government will present its reconstruction plan.
“Secretary (Panfilo) Ping Lacson and all the concerned agencies — DPWH, DSWD, DOH, and others will certainly be meeting with them, and also NEDA,” he told reporters in a press briefing in Malacanang on Monday noting that the one doing post-disaster assessment is NEDA.
But he said the administration is confident because it has the budget for reconstruction in addition to pledges of assistance by foreign governments and organizations.
The Palace official also emphasized the role of the private sector in rebuilding areas devastated by Typhoon Yolanda, which is a great help for the government.
The IMF expects the Philippine economy to grow by 6.3 percent this year, slower than last year’s 7.2 percent. (PNA)