“Collaborative visions for a stronger Philippines”
Each year, the Pilipinas Conference gathers global thought leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society for impactful discussions on the challenges and strategies essential to creating a better Philippines.
Now on its ninth year, and marking the Stratbase Group’s 20th anniversary, the conference has become a trusted platform for honest insights, innovative ideas, and transformative policies. This year’s gathering comes at a crucial time as the nation prepares for the 2025 midterm elections, setting the stage for meaningful dialogue on the complex geopolitical, economic, and social issues facing the Philippines today.
The Philippines is uniquely positioned within the rapidly evolving Indo-Pacific region. Its strategic location, abundance of natural resources, and dynamic, young workforce make it a potential hub for foreign investment and regional leadership. But potential alone isn’t enough; it’s the action we take and the policies we implement that will define our success.
Ongoing geopolitical shifts have opened a window of opportunity for the Philippines to emerge as a significant player. If the country can streamline bureaucratic processes, attract foreign investments, and foster a stable business environment, it can become a regional manufacturing and logistics powerhouse. This is precisely where multi-sectoral collaboration comes in.
The conference theme, “Navigating a Complex Geostrategic Landscape: Building Resilience Through Cohesive Cross-Sectoral Collaboration in 2025,” couldn’t be more timely. We are at a juncture where global challenges require strategic solutions. It’s through collective effort that we can build resilience, innovate, and prepare for the unexpected.
A recent survey by Pulse Asia, commissioned by Stratbase, underscores the public’s belief in the essential role of the private sector in driving economic development. The survey highlights that Filipinos see private enterprises as crucial partners in building economic security. This view is clear: 52% of respondents believe the private sector is instrumental in creating livelihood opportunities, 51% appreciate its role in making goods more accessible, and 48% emphasize the importance of high-quality job creation.
However, frustrating barriers like red tape, regulatory changes in every political cycle, and corruption are seen as nagging deterrents to foreign investment. If we want an investment-led growth, we must simplify and stabilize these processes. Addressing these roadblocks is more than just a means to boost investor confidence—it’s essential to driving inclusive economic growth that benefits every Filipino. When the government and private sector collaborate on solutions, a symbiotic ecosystem can propel the country to a new era of sustainable economic prosperity that can thrive even amid global uncertainties.
As the midterm elections approach, economic issues are top-of-mind for Filipino voters. Pulse Asia’s survey shows that Filipinos are keenly focused on job creation, investment-led growth, and fighting corruption. These priorities are more than just talking points; they are pulsed from the people that candidates must address in their platforms if they hope to win the voting public’s trust.
Corruption, in particular, remains a key concern. According to the survey, 65% of Filipinos feel that corruption erodes their trust in government, while 51% see it as a factor worsening poverty. These perceptions underscore an urgent need for transparency and integrity in governance. Beyond the damage to trust, corruption hampers economic growth, and kills the appetite of potential investors.
As the world transitions towards zero carbon emissions, the Philippines has the opportunity to become a key player in the global supply chain. Day 2 of the conference will highlight the creation of green jobs and high-quality employment as central to economic resilience. The Marcos Jr. administration’s 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda is an essential step forward, prioritizing investment in sustainable infrastructure, critical minerals, and clean energy.
A resilient economy is not only about pushing for growth; it’s about sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. As we build this future, we must consider the impact on our environment, and our most vulnerable communities. Our approach should be holistic, ensuring that the responsible stewardship of the environment is a requisite for progress that will lift everyone, leaving no one behind.
The Pilipinas Conference serves as a rallying cry for all sectors—government, private, and civil society—to come together and contribute to the nation’s future. Stratbase remains committed to fostering these essential dialogues and diverse perspectives are bringing them together to develop policies that are responsive, inclusive, and future-focused.
Our greatest challenges won’t be solved by any one sector alone. Solutions will arise from collaboration, innovation, and a shared outlook to push forward. This is our moment to engage, inspire, and lead—leveraging our strengths, addressing our challenges, and building a more resilient, prosperous Philippines for all.
