Most Filipinos believe that the private sector helps expand livelihood opportunities and make goods more affordable and accessible to Filipino consumers, according to a Pulse Asia survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group.
The survey, conducted on Sept. 6 to 13, 2024, asked 1,200 respondents and had a ± 3 margin of error. Respondents were asked for ways they believe the private sector and the government can help each other to attain economic growth and development. Respondents were given a list of choices and were asked to choose up to three answers.
Fifty-two percent of Filipinos said the private sector can help in expanding livelihood opportunities, while 51 percent said it can help in making goods that are more affordable and accessible to Filipino consumers.
Forty-eight percent said the private sector can help in creating higher quality jobs, while 43 percent said they improve health care services.
Other answers include developing the skills of the Filipino workforce (36 percent), improving the quality of digital services (33 percent) and developing public infrastructure (26 percent).
Stratbase Group founder and chief executive Victor Andres Manhit said the private sector plays a critical role in driving economic progress by creating livelihood opportunities, enhancing productivity and fostering innovation.
“Private enterprises have the proven ability to adapt swiftly to market needs to ensure the continuous provision of goods and services that benefit Filipino consumers and create millions of gainful employment. By leveraging its resources and expertise, the private sector can catalyze growth across multiple sectors, contributing significantly to national development,” he said.
Manhit said achieving sustained economic growth requires strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The government sets the direction and creates the enabling environment, while the private sector brings in the capital, innovation, and efficiency needed to implement large-scale projects and be a reliable driver for new industries that support a multitude of linked businesses. Together, they can build a more resilient and competitive economy, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals,” Manhit said.
To further strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors and ensure economic growth and development, the Stratbase Group will hold the Pilipinas Conference 2024 on Nov. 6 and 7, 2024 in Makati City.
Top government officials and key business leaders will gather together to discuss strategic initiatives necessary for fostering a robust economy and resilient society through the creation of green and high-quality jobs.
Among those who will attend the two-day conference are Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Environment Secretary Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go, Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Maharlika Investment Corp. president and CEO Rafael Jose Consing Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Romeo Brawner Jr., Australian Ambassador to the Phlilippines Hae Kyong Yu and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya.
Also expected to attend are top business leaders like Ayala Corp. chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, ACCIONA Infrastructure chief executive Jose Diaz-Caneja, Meralco PowerGen Corp. president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio, Aboitiz Power Corp. chief financial officer Sandro Aboitiz, Nickel Asia Corp. president and CEO Martin Antonio Zamora, Prime Infrastructure Capital president and CEO Guillaume Lucci and Aboitiz Infracapital president and CEO Cosette Canilao.
“Stratbase is committed to sustaining its unique role in facilitating these essential dialogues, ensuring that all sectors of society are represented and engaged in shaping the nation’s future. The path forward must integrate the collective insights of all stakeholders, driven by a shared vision of raising the Philippines’ standing in the global economy and enhancing the quality of life for every Filipino,” Manhit said.
“The 2024 Pilipinas Conference is more than just an event; it is a call to action for all who are invested in the country’s future. Together, we can chart a course that secures the Philippines’ rightful place on the world stage,” he said.
Pilipinas Conference 2024 is also part of the Stratbase Group’s celebration of its 20 years since its founding.