MANILA, Philippines — A lawmaker is pushing for the implementation of the Balik Probinsya program as workers in Metro Manila return to provinces due to lack of employment amid the coronavirus pandemic. ADVERTISEMENT“Now is the time for the government to implement the Balik Probinsya Program [to address] the exodus of these construction workers and other workers from the National Capital Region (NCR),” Villafuerte said during the online meeting of the social amelioration cluster of the House’s Defeat COVID-19 Committee (DCC) on Friday. According to Villafuerte, the program would not only spur economic growth in provinces but also provide employment opportunities for residents through infrastructure projects. “They went to Manila looking for greener pasture, looking for a job because in the provinces there is really no employment opportunities. Año said the Balik Probinsiya program would end recurring problems in urban areas, such as worsening traffic, uneven development, poor sanitation, poor health care, and overpopulation.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer May 01, 2020 04:52 UTC