Future depends on more than just infrastructure

Local government units (LGUs) frequently share posts on Facebook about their infrastructure projects and receive positive feedback from constituents. This reflects public approval, as seen through overwhelmingly supportive comments. It’s understandable, considering that in 2023, the Philippines invested approximately P1.2 trillion in infrastructure and capital outlays, marking a 20-percent increase from the previous year.

In 2024, the “Build better more” program continued this momentum with an allocation of P1.51 trillion for infrastructure, which is P180 billion more than the 2023 budget. The country remains committed to investing 5 to 6 percent of its gross domestic product annually in infrastructure, as outlined in the medium-term fiscal framework.

While infrastructure development is crucial, many, including myself, believe that LGUs should focus on more than just physical structures. The real challenge lies in building a sustainable future by empowering the constituents. Alongside roads and buildings, LGUs should prioritize initiatives that enable citizens, especially the economically disadvantaged, to shape their futures. One way to achieve this is by fostering an electorate capable of critical thinking and choosing ethical leaders. Infrastructure is undeniably valuable, but its true benefit lies in effective usage. For example, roads should facilitate the transportation of goods to markets, provide access to schools and health-care facilities, and address the genuine needs of constituents, rather than solely benefiting political allies or rich families.

Moreover, LGUs should highlight innovative partnerships with nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and civil society to address broader social and environmental issues. By learning from successful projects and engaging in meaningful consultations, LGUs can ensure that their programs have a lasting impact. Otherwise, an LGU runs the risk of becoming indistinguishable from those dominated by long-standing political dynasties. In this scenario, traditional politicians seek recognition through photo ops and increased visibility during election time. The public needs to remember that these projects are funded by taxpayer money, not politicians’ personal wealth.

While it is valid to celebrate the completion of infrastructure projects, particularly when they are finished on time and without corruption, it’s essential to clarify that finishing a project does not mean its long-term objectives or goals have been met. Completion is merely a step toward success.

For instance, the construction of a new road should eventually lead to higher incomes by improving access to jobs and markets. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the average annual income of a Filipino family is currently P307,000, or a monthly average of P25,583, while the average annual family expenditure is lower at P215,193 per year. According to recent data, Singapore’s median salary for full-time work in Singapore is 5,170 Singapore dollars monthly or about P216,106 in 2023, which is almost 10 times the monthly income of Filipinos.

The completion of a new road should contribute to increasing the income of constituents using the road for livelihood purposes. Similarly, a new road should result in increased school enrollment and immunization rates among children. Enrollment in primary school in the Philippines was reported at 91.87 percent in 2022. A health clinic should lead to healthier children through regular check-ups and immunizations. According to the 2022 World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund Estimates of National Immunization Coverage, there are 637,000 unvaccinated children in the Philippines, placing them at a higher risk of contracting diseases.

To realize these long-term benefits, projects must be executed efficiently, with synergy between government programs and the efforts of NGOs and civil society. Only then can we ensure that the future being built is truly sustainable and inclusive. While it may be a long shot for LGUs, NGOs, and civil society to work together to change the status quo and challenge political dynasties, at least we know the way forward toward a sustainable future for every Filipino.

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Nestor Felix worked for an international NGO as a corporate planning, monitoring, and evaluation manager, covering 13 Asian countries.