The Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) recently met with the newly appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Philippines, Arnaud Peral, to discuss how the UN can support GCNP’s initiatives.
Included in the discussions is the role of the private sector in light of global challenges and shifting political landscapes impacting global sustainable development goals.
Peral’s engagement with the GCNP board of trustees comes at a pivotal moment. According to the 2024 SDG Progress Report by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the world is “severely off-track” in meeting the 2030 Agenda. The UN has also reported a $4-trillion annual financing gap to achieve the SDGs—an urgent call for all sectors to accelerate action.
“The role of the private sector in advancing sustainable development is more crucial than ever. The UN welcomes opportunities to collaborate with GCNP and its members to drive meaningful impact in the Philippines, particularly by creating an enabling environment for investments and job acceleration,” said Peral.
The GCNP presented an overview of its current programs and strategic priorities, with particular focus on its commitment to the UN Global Compact’s Forward Faster initiative. This global call to action mobilizes businesses to fast-track progress across five key areas: gender equality, climate action, living wage, water resilience and finance for the SDGs.
The GCNP participants committed to align their strategies and operations with the Ten Principles on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption—and to taking action in support of the SDGs.
“GCNP remains committed to strengthening partnerships with the UN and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for sustainable and responsible business in the country. By working together, we can scale up solutions that contribute to both national development and global sustainability targets,” said Vickie Tan, chairperson of the GCNP board of trustees.
Peral reaffirmed the support of the UN in enhancing private sector engagement and encouraged more frequent dialogue to leverage cross-sector synergies and accelerate the country’s sustainable development efforts.
As of March 2025, GCNP counts 65 participating organizations from diverse sectors, including some of the country’s top corporations, such as SM Investments Corp., Bank of Philippine Islands , Ayala Corp. and PLDT Inc.
GCNP remains committed to advancing the principles of the UN Global Compact and supporting Philippine businesses in turning global goals into local business action.