Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez stated that the Philippines will not experience economic stagnation, even with President Duterte's projection of a return to pre-pandemic life by 2023.
Lopez believes that as Filipinos adapt to the virus, various economic sectors can gradually reopen despite ongoing quarantine measures.
He expressed optimism that the economy could potentially recover to its pre-pandemic state even before 2023 through economic reforms and programs.
The Trade Secretary refuted claims of the government being reckless in reopening the economy, citing the period since August where cases decreased from 4,000 to below 2,000 daily after gradual reopenings.
Lopez views this as evidence of a successful strategy in managing COVID-19 cases while allowing economic activities to resume.
He welcomed President Duterte's statement about lifting restrictions to a Modified General Community Quarantine once vaccines are widely available, emphasizing the need for people to work and businesses to recover.
The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines starting on Monday is expected to boost optimism among Filipinos for a return to normalcy.
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