The Philippine government’s strategies for sustainable growth and a greener future hinge on robust investments in infrastructure and innovation to enhance the country’s resilience against climate shocks, according to National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.
Speaking at the Fourth Philippines-Singapore Business and Investment Summit (PSBIS) on Thursday (September 19), Secretary Balisacan emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in the nation’s development strategy.
During the “Green Blueprint: Economic Outlook, Priority Expenditures, and Strategic Investment Priorities” session, Balisacan highlighted the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028. He outlined the government’s priority strategies for fostering climate-resilient and adaptive ecosystems and communities, strongly focusing on building essential infrastructure.
“The Philippines is one of the countries most vulnerable to the impact of climate change and compounding disasters, ranking first among 193 countries based on the 2023 World Risk Report. We acknowledge that significant investments in sustainable and resilient infrastructure are necessary to enhance our economy’s resilience to shocks, further protect our environment, and even kick-start the creation of high-quality jobs,” said Balisacan.
Balisacan said there are currently 164 Public-Private-Partnership projects underway, valued at approximately P3.2 trillion ($56 billion). These projects span physical and digital connectivity, healthcare, water and sanitation, solid waste management, and energy.
Additionally, of the country’s 186 Infrastructure Flagship Projects worth about P9.6 trillion (USD170 billion), 29 are dedicated to improving irrigation and water resources, nine to the agriculture sector, and one to improving power and energy infrastructure.
The country’s chief socioeconomic planner highlighted the importance of promoting human and social development by creating livable communities.
“Our communities and ecosystems must be resilient to environmental hazards and adaptable to a fast-changing climate. The government will work with the private sector as we transition to a low-carbon economy that is efficient and appropriate to our people’s and economy’s development needs,” he added.
Balisacan also emphasized the importance of science, technology, and innovation in addressing the country’s numerous development challenges and risks. Through the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) for 2023-2032, the National Innovation Council, composed of members from the private and public sectors, has set out a clear plan to build a vibrant innovation system.
The government is also pushing for crucial legislative reforms in pursuit of sustained and inclusive growth. These priority measures include the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime, Amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, and the Excise Tax on Single-Use Plastics. The creation of the Department of Water Resources will help strengthen the governance of the water sector and enhance water resources management.
“The PDP 2023-2028 is the Marcos Administration’s clear, impenetrable, whole-of-government, and whole-of-society blueprint for economic and social transformation. This Plan is anchored on the lessons learned from recent decades of development experience and the global megatrends shaping societies today. In pursuit of the country’s long-term development vision, or the AmBisyon Natin 2040, the PDP aspires to create a prosperous, predominantly middle-class, resilient society where we have eradicated poverty, and every Filipino enjoys a life of dignity and opportunity,” Balisacan said.
The PSBIS celebrated the 55th anniversary of Philippine-Singapore bilateral relations. An essential event highlight was the Summit, which also witnessed the signing of memoranda of understanding with the Philippines’ first-ever Innovation Hub outside the country, located at the Singapore Management University.
The event, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Philippine Embassy in Singapore and co-presented by BDO Unibank and Private Banking in Singapore, serves as a platform for industry leaders and government officials from both countries to share and exchange insights on developing intelligent, sustainable, and innovative cities.
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