SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday welcomed the results of the latest Tugon ng Masa (TNM) Survey conducted by OCTA Research, saying the significant decline in self-rated poverty and food insecurity confirms that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s socioeconomic agenda is delivering real, measurable results.
“The numbers tell a powerful story of progress,” Speaker Romualdez said. “More than 2.1 million Filipino families no longer consider themselves poor. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a breakthrough in the fight against poverty. It’s a signal that our programs are working, and the nation is moving forward.”
According to the April 2025 TNM Survey, only 42% of Filipino families now consider themselves poor—down from 50% just five months ago. Food poverty also dropped dramatically from 49% to 35%, translating to about 3.7 million fewer families who feel they cannot afford proper meals.
“These are real and measurable gains. From livelihood assistance to food security, from cash transfers to job generation—this administration is delivering on its promise to uplift lives,” Speaker Romualdez emphasized.
While the hunger rate at 13% remains statistically similar to the previous quarter, Speaker Romualdez noted that nearly 792,000 fewer families reported experiencing involuntary hunger.
“That’s almost 800,000 Filipino households with better access to food than just a few months ago. That matters. That gives us hope,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez called on government agencies, LGUs and lawmakers to sustain the momentum. “This is proof that the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Marcos is not just aspirational—it is attainable. But we must keep pushing.”
He also urged the public to discern narratives meant to discredit progress. “Let’s focus on the facts. Let’s build on what’s working. And let’s reject the noise of baseless negativity.”
Speaker Romualdez reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting legislation that reduces inequality, expands opportunity and sustains economic growth. “We are ready to work even harder to ensure that more Filipino families rise above poverty and live with dignity and hope.”
