“Good governance and good economics is the key to a rapid, sustainable and inclusive growth.”
This was the message of Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan at the “Breakfast Chat” with Batch 10 scholars of the Middle Managers Class under the Public Management Development Program (PMDP) scholars at the Development Academy of the Philippines Conference Center (DAPCC) last December.
The National Economic and Development Authority Chief proudly shared how the Philippine economy has improved in the last five years from being the so-called “Sick Man of Asia” to becoming “Asia’s Rising Star.”
Balisacan said that “the Philippine economy is on a higher growth trajectory” and that the “patterns of growth seen in successful countries (before) are the (same) patterns we’re seeing now.”
‘Not hindrance but motivation’
The Socio-Economic Planning Secretary also highlighted the fundamental problems that limit investments in the Philippines. He said that these barriers should not be seen as “hindrance but rather a motivation” to continue the path towards development.
“Development does not happen overnight, it’s a continuous, tedious process which requires perseverance and hard work,” the Secretary stressed. “Change may not be seen at the moment, but the government is working towards achieving the sustainable and inclusive growth this country needs.”
Balisacan reiterated that what the country needs are “clear, specific and substantive quality reforms” and the fundamentals of why and how to ensure and sustain that economic growth so that it will be felt by the coming generations.
Improve economic climate, human capital
He also cited that aside from reforms, the actual growth of the economy depends on the growth of its potential, saying that the country needs to improve its economic climate and human capital.
The Secretary also challenged the scholars to be the change they want to see in the bureaucracy. He said that everyone should work hand-in-hand towards the greater good of the Philippines, stressing that “we have to grow the country and create the capacity to meet all its needs to achieve that.”
President Antonio D. Kalaw Jr., who is also the PMDP National Executive Director, concluded the event by reminding the scholars of the importance of participating in events such as the “Breakfast Chat” as this allows them to broaden their perspective on issues faced by the country both in the national and international setting.
Other VIPs
Also present at the event were SVP for Programs Magdalena L. Mendoza and PMDP Program Director Nanette C. Caparros.
The “Breakfast Chat” is the PMDP’s venue for exchanging views, soliciting feedback and updating the scholars on recent developments and issues confronting the country.
The PMDP is an intensive program that provides public managers a comprehensive and multi-modal learning opportunity that embodies competence, integrity and commitment. It is now on its fourth year and to date has produced 369 graduates. Recruitment for MMC Batch 12 is currently ongoing.
