In a significant show of support for the Philippine economy, six of the country's most influential business organizations have jointly reaffirmed their confidence in the nation's long-term economic prospects, asserting that ongoing political tensions have not weakened their commitment to invest and expand operations.
Business Community Stands United
The Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Institute of Corporate Directors, Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Philippine Finance Association issued a collective statement on Monday, November 17, 2025, declaring that the Philippines' economic foundations remain strong despite current challenges.
These prominent business groups emphasized that the country's well-regulated financial system and stable banking sector continue to provide a solid foundation for growth. They specifically noted that regulators including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Securities and Exchange Commission maintain their independence and uphold frameworks aligned with global standards.
The organizations highlighted that the Philippines meets international benchmarks on capital adequacy, disclosure rules, and corporate governance, which helps maintain market integrity and investor confidence. They also pointed to the resilience of Philippine corporate earnings, noting that listed companies have successfully weathered past economic shocks from the Global Financial Crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Investment Momentum Continues
Private sector investment has remained robust, with gross fixed capital formation ranging between 22 percent to 27 percent of gross domestic product over the past decade. Total investments exceeded an impressive P6 trillion in 2024, demonstrating that companies continue to build capacity, expand operations, and invest in the country's long-term prospects.
The business groups stressed that governance remains critical to sustaining investor confidence. They urged public institutions to ensure policy stability, uphold the rule of law, and address corruption quickly and decisively. As business organizations, they reaffirmed their commitment to responsible leadership, ethical practices, and constructive engagement with government.
Government Assurance on Economic Stability
In a separate statement, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto assured both Filipinos and international investors that the economy remains fundamentally strong. He highlighted ongoing reforms and intensified anti-corruption measures as key components in maintaining economic confidence.
Trust is the lifeblood of any economy, Recto stated, adding that the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is taking decisive action to hold public officials accountable. The President has committed to filing cases against those who mishandled public funds before the end of the year.
Recto confirmed that the government's fiscal consolidation path remains on track, with the administration committed to gradually reducing the deficit and debt while simultaneously creating jobs, increasing income, and lifting more Filipinos out of poverty.
The government is implementing a comprehensive catch-up plan to align spending with national priorities, accelerate growth, and ensure high-impact infrastructure and public service programs continue without disruption. Key projects including school buildings and post-disaster infrastructure will proceed with clear budgets and public timelines.
On the economic front, Recto pointed to stable inflation at 1.7 percent in October, with even lower rates for the bottom 30 percent of households at -0.4 percent. This provides room for monetary easing to support growth. Wage and salary workers accounted for 64.1 percent of total employment, reflecting the economy's ability to generate stable jobs.
The Finance Secretary urged Congress to approve the 2026 national budget, citing fiscal discipline and targeted austerity measures on travel, maintenance, and other non-essential expenses. The national budget is the most powerful lever of our growth story, he emphasized, promising responsible management of public funds.
The administration is intensifying efforts against tax evasion and smuggling, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bureau of Customs pursuing major cases under strict deadlines. Recto vowed there would be no delays, no exemptions, no sacred cows in these enforcement actions.
Economic growth is projected at 4.7 to 4.8 percent, while real interest rates on public debt are estimated at 3.3 percent by year-end, levels the government views as sustainable. Recto concluded by reiterating the Marcos administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance, stating this is a government that cleanses itself from within, honors public trust, and safeguards the future of every Filipino.
