How did the “Build, Build, Build” program under President Duterte impact the Philippine economy?
Answer (1)
The Build, Build, Build program was one of the flagship initiatives of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. Its main goal was to improve infrastructure across the Philippines by constructing roads, bridges, airports, seaports, railways, and public buildings. The idea was that better infrastructure would lead to faster transportation, more efficient logistics, and ultimately, stronger economic growth.The program had a large budget and was mostly funded through public borrowing, taxes, and partnerships with foreign governments like China and Japan. It created thousands of jobs, especially in construction, engineering, and transport sectors. It also helped reduce traffic congestion in major urban areas, particularly Metro Manila, by building expressways and bypass roads.However, there were also criticisms. Some projects were delayed or not completed on time. Others faced problems with land ownership, budgeting, or corruption. Additionally, since the program relied heavily on foreign loans, some economists warned that it could increase the country’s debt burden.While not all goals were met, the BBB program showed the importance of government-led infrastructure investment in pushing forward long-term economic development. For students, it’s a good example of how public policies affect everyday life—making travel easier, encouraging business growth, and influencing job creation.
