A leader who rises to power with a resounding mandate always faces immense challenges. When President Marcos emerged victorious in the 2022 elections with a majority vote of 31 million Filipino voters, he was confronted with the reality that a majority of the voters had placed their trust in him and expected him to make crucial decisions on their behalf. At the time, the country was grappling with significant difficulties. It was in the midst of an economic recovery, struggling to regain stability after the devastating impact of the pandemic-induced lockdowns. The prices of essential goods were skyrocketing due to various factors, including disruptions in the supply chains caused by external influences, and there was instability in the energy supply. Additionally, the nation was facing frequent and audacious displays by China in the West Philippine Sea, disregarding the Philippines’ victory in the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Moreover, the existential threat posed by climate change and the overall degradation of the environment added to the challenges.
Despite these daunting circumstances, the President took a positive first step by carefully selecting competent individuals for his economic team. These experts would assist him in assessing the situation, setting targets, and creating plans based on empirical historical data. They possess the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate these complex issues. The recently approved Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 outlines the government’s priorities and targets for achieving specific development goals in the short to medium term. These priorities are further elaborated in the General Appropriations Act, which demonstrates the government’s commitment and allocation of resources to these priorities.
In addition to these plans and programs, the manner in which governance is executed is crucial. This administration recognizes the importance of forging partnerships and collaborations with various sectors of society, starting with the private sector and civil society. These partnerships drive efforts in numerous aspects of government operations, including energy security, trade and investments, environment and sustainability, and security. Public-private partnerships play a central role in these endeavors. For instance, attracting investments in renewable and clean energy is essential to achieve an optimal energy mix that meets our power requirements while prioritizing sustainability and environmental preservation. The administration acknowledges the diverse perspectives on what this optimal mix should be and is actively engaging with different stakeholders to determine the best path forward.
As we aim to reduce our trade deficit and stimulate investments, particularly in the manufacturing sector, it is crucial to create a business-friendly environment with consistent and fair regulations. Gone are the days when policies were whimsically announced and investors were left uncertain about the stability of regulations. In the realm of environment, the private sector has taken a lead role by going beyond mere compliance and adopting environmentally conscious practices that prioritize sustainability and the circular economy, not just as a corporate social responsibility activity. Despite our relatively low carbon footprint as a nation, we strive to collaborate with civil society on high-impact projects that mitigate global warming and help communities adapt to its consequences.
Lastly, in the face of challenges to our sovereignty and integrity in the West Philippine Sea, the administration comprehends the importance of partnering with like-minded states and the private sector. Furthermore, it acknowledges the necessity of utilizing technology and defense capabilities to address traditional, nontraditional, and evolving threats. Recently, Mr. Marcos issued Executive Order No. 31, which institutionalizes the Philippine Open Government System and reinforces our commitment to the Open Government Partnership (OGP)—a global movement comprising 76 countries, 106 local governments, and numerous civil society organizations dedicated to promoting transparency, participatory governance, inclusivity, and accountability. The Philippines has been involved with the OGP since its inception in 2011, and the issuance of EO 31 underscores the current administration’s dedication to doing what is right and pursuing it in the appropriate manner.
Dindo Manhit is the founder and CEO of the Stratbase Group.
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