Congratulations to the members and staff of the Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines (RBAP) on the celebration of the "Rural Banking Week" every last week of August.
In her first State of the Nation Address, President Arroyo specifically talked about micro financing being the cornerstone of our country's fight against poverty. Along this line, we at the Department of Finance seek to strengthen the rural banking sector, and promote micro financing as a tool for countryside development. We believe that as financing conduits in the countryside, rural banks will determine the pace and quality of development of our local economies.
I am also pleased to note the significance of the Association's celebration theme this year, "Rural Banks: Prime Movers of Progress through Microfinance" as we continue working towards economic recovery and sustained development. As you mark another Rural Banking Week (August 22 to 28, 2005), I am confident that you will continue to be government's vital partner in countryside development
MARGARITO B. TEVES
Secretary, Department of Finance
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