Government urged to maximize high population

MANILA, Philippines - The government was urged yesterday to maximize opportunities presented by the country’s population, projected to reach 104 million this year.

Although alarming, the Commission on Population (PopCom)’s projection may also present many economic opportunities to help the country get ahead of other economies, according to Parañaque City Rep. Gus Tambunting.

“Our young and booming population is actually an edge we have over other countries as it provides us with a strong labor force,” he said.

 “It attracts foreign investments as seen by how we have one of the highest economic growth rates in Asia.” 

China, Japan and Singapore are now confronted with economic and social problems because of their previous policies to focus on controlling their populations, Tambunting said.

China is now implementing a two-child policy, and Lee Kwan Yew had expressed regret in limiting Singapore’s population, he added.

Some countries with ageing populations have reached a point that it is almost impossible to rejuvenate their demographics, Tambunting said.

He warned that the country’s high population will become a burden if the government does not invest in human capital and development.

“What we need to do is focus on improving our education and health services to make sure our people are fit for the jobs coming their way,” he said.