R.P. Cabinet Secretary cites GMA priorities

R.P. Cabinet Secretary cites GMA priorities

TORONTO – Jobs creation, lowering of prices of commodities, fight hunger and poverty, implmentation of law and order, and the eradication of corruption are the priority programs and projects of the administration of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, according to Cabinet Secretary Ricardo Saludo in a speech before the Filipino community leaders, businessmen and members of the media last Sunday (Dec. 4) at the Golden Valley’s Food Outlet in Scarborough.

At the same time, Mr. Saludo lashed at the media in the Philippines for publishing only the negative aspects of the Arroyo Administration and the too much political game being played by the country’s political oppositionists thus discouraging prospective foreign investors in the country.

Political bickering created by those opposing the Arroyo Administration has resulted in the negative picture of country worldwide.
He noted that President Arroyo is appealing to everybody to get back to work and to forget politics in the meantime so as to help propel the country’s economy.

Mr. Saludo, the grandson of the late textile magnate, Basilio Lirag, said that the two religious leaders in the country, Minister Erano Manalo of the Iglesia Ni Kristo and Brother Mike Velarde of the El Shaddai, are supportive of the leadership of President Arroyo.

Mr. Saludo’s visit in Toronto was arranged by the Philippine Consul General’s Office and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce – Toronto.

He was introduced by Consul General Alejandro B. Mosquera and the opening remarks was delivered by PCCT President Cora de la Cruz.

Consul Julius D. Torres took charge of the open forum while Vice Consul Indhira C. Banares was the master of ceremonies.