The Stratbase ADR Institute’s (ADRi) quarterly virtual business roundtable series started last year to serve as a platform for the country’s top business groups and industry thought leaders to spark discussions and exchange ideas on their vital role in nation building. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the private sector proved itself to be a reliable partner of government in delivering goods and services through their investments. Interestingly, a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) in October 2021 found that majority of Filipinos at 82% believe that the growth of the Philippine economy will be accelerated if the government collaborates more actively with the private sector.
As always, the Institute sparks developmental dialogue and constructive insights to influence the formulation of good public policy, legislation, and regulation. In partnership with BowerGroupAsia (BGA), this year’s first business roundtable discussion, entitled, “Business Agenda for the New Administration” was held virtually on 8 March 2022, Tuesday, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Manila Time).
With the forthcoming national elections, Filipinos anticipate that the new administration will prioritize the alleviation of economic hardships while addressing the country’s COVID-19 situation. For two years, businesses have struggled amid a global health crisis, resulting in millions of Filipinos losing their livelihoods. With positive GDP growth rates since the second quarter of 2021, the Philippine economy seems to have significantly improved after suffering from the harsh impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this development does not actually reflect the realities on the ground as millions of Filipinos remain jobless, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Indeed, what the Philippines is experiencing now is a jobless growth.
This event served as a venue for the business community to discuss a possible business agenda by the next administration, which, expectedly, should focus on areas such as expansion of investment opportunities, job creation, and alleviation of poverty, inequality and other economic uncertainties. But all these are hinged on the results of a credible election and national leaders with known integrity. After all, good governance is the principal basis for attracting prospective investors who prefer a predictable regulatory environment. During this forum, business leaders had the chance to articulate their potential role in dealing with these perennial problems.
Program
Opening Remarks
Mr. Ernest Bower IV
President and CEO, BowerGroupAsia (BGA)
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE NEXT ADMINISTRATION
Pursuing an Investment-Led, More Sustainable Economic Growth
Mr. Diwa Guinigundo
Former Deputy Governor, Monetary and Economics Sector, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
Issues for the Next Administration’s Development Agenda on Human Capital and Labor Markets
Dr. Vicente Paqueo
Non-Resident Fellow, Stratbase ADR Institute; Distinguished Visiting Fellow, Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)
BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
Public-Private Sector Collaboration for Immediate Business Recovery
Mr. George Barcelon
President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)
Parallels Between Good Management and Good Governance
Mr. Alfredo Pascual
President, Management Association of the Philippines (MAP)
Reforms for Employment Generation
Mr. Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr.
President, Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP)
The Private Sector’s Role in Strengthening Democratic Institutions and Liberalizing the Economy
Mr. Edgar Chua
Chairman, Makati Business Club (MBC)
Promoting Women in Business
Ms. Sharon Dayoan
President and Co-Founder, Filipina CEO Circle (FCC)
Closing Remarks
Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit
President, Stratbase ADR Institute
Host and Moderator
Atty. Karen Jimeno
Chief Legal Counsel, SofCap Partners PE
ADRi vRTD: Business Agenda for the New Administration
