Makati city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the necessity for the Philippines to elect a 'like-minded president' in 2028 to ensure the continuity of current economic reforms. Speaking at the ASEAN Editors and Economic Opinion Leaders Forum, he highlighted the risk of reversing the progress made if a different political agenda takes over.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos stressed the importance of policy consistency to maintain the country's trajectory towards becoming more investment-friendly. He noted that policy reversals between administrations have historically disrupted progress, posing concerns for investors. Marcos pointed out, "If we do not elect a like-minded president in 2028, all of these will just go by the wayside," referencing the reforms initiated during his tenure.
The President remarked on the tendency of opposition parties to criticize without necessarily having to implement effective solutions. He emphasized that reforms must resonate with the public to ensure their endurance beyond his administration. Some policies, he noted, have been 'enshrined in law' to safeguard them from easy reversal.
When asked about the qualities of a future leader, Marcos underscored the importance of economic competence. He articulated the need for someone who understands fundamental economic principles such as job creation, inflation control, and productivity enhancement. "Growth is about productivity," he stated, outlining the necessity for a leader focused on nation-building rather than partisan politics.
Marcos also detailed structural reforms like the CREATE MORE Act, which seeks to attract investment through fiscal incentives. He mentioned streamlined processes and government support for sectors like agriculture, education, and healthcare. The administration maintains regular consultation with the Private Sector Advisory Council to ensure alignment with business needs.
As the 2028 elections approach, Vice President Sara Duterte is currently the only prominent figure to declare candidacy. While President Marcos has not yet endorsed a successor, he acknowledged the challenges of elevating someone without a political background in the country's charged political environment.
