Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo served as the 14th President of the Republic of the Philippines from 2001 to 2010. Her presidency was marked by both achievements and controversies. Some of her notable achievements and legacies as president include:

• Economic growth: Arroyo's administration was known for its focus on economic growth. Under her leadership, the Philippine economy grew at an average annual rate of 4.5% from 2001 to 2009, and even survived the global financial crisis of 2008-2009.

• Fiscal stability: Arroyo's administration also improved the fiscal stability of the country. She implemented fiscal reforms that reduced the budget deficit and increased revenues, leading to an improved credit rating for the Philippines.

• Infrastructure development: Arroyo's administration also focused on infrastructure development. She oversaw the construction of several major highways and bridges, as well as the expansion of the country's telecommunications network.

• Education: Arroyo's administration implemented several education reforms, including the Education for All program and the expansion of the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) program.

• The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was launched during her administration in 2008. The program is a conditional cash transfer program aimed at reducing poverty and promoting human capital development among poor households in the country.

However, Arroyo's presidency was also marked by several controversies, including:

• Election fraud: Arroyo was accused of election fraud during the 2004 presidential elections, in which she narrowly defeated her opponent, Fernando Poe Jr. The allegations of fraud were never proven, but they tarnished her reputation and led to protests and calls for her resignation.

• Corruption: Arroyo's administration was also accused of corruption, particularly in relation to the "Hello Garci" scandal, in which she was allegedly caught on tape discussing election fraud with a top election official. She was also accused of accepting bribes from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.

• Human rights abuses: Arroyo's administration was criticized for human rights abuses, particularly in relation to the extrajudicial killings of political activists and journalists. She was also criticized for her handling of the Maguindanao massacre, in which 58 people were killed, including 32 journalists.

In conclusion, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's presidency was marked by both achievements and controversies. While she oversaw economic growth and made significant contributions to infrastructure development and education reform, she was also accused of election fraud, corruption, and human rights abuses.