In a major push to accelerate the nation's economic agenda, top government economic managers convened with the country's leading business figures on Friday, January 16, 2026. The high-level dialogue, titled "Big Bold Reforms: The Philippines 2026," served as a platform to underscore the administration's unwavering commitment to implementing transformative policies aimed at strengthening governance and ensuring sustainable development.
Fostering Optimism and Partnership
The flagship event, held at Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City, saw participation from more than 300 key stakeholders. Attendees included top executives, representatives from various chambers of commerce and industry associations, and members of the financial sector.
In his keynote address, Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go framed the gathering as a venue to share positive developments. He emphasized that the pursued reforms are built upon the country's solid long-term economic fundamentals. "We convened this briefing to deliver some good news—the big, bold reforms we are pursuing... to inspire optimism, encourage greater investment, and move forward with confidence after the extraordinary year that just passed," Secretary Go stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. highlighted the unique opportunity born from recent challenges. "Together, the political leadership, the economic agencies, and the business community can turn challenging times into opportunity. Last year’s crisis can be the jolt we need to pursue the bold reforms we want," Governor Remolona remarked.
Concrete Updates Across Key Sectors
The dialogue provided a stage for cabinet officials to present concrete updates and strategic initiatives designed to foster inclusive and resilient growth. The presentations were segmented into critical areas of the economy.
For infrastructure, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez, and DOE Secretary Sharon Garin outlined their departments' investment reforms and catch-up plans. Reforms for the tourism and agriculture sectors were detailed by DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., and DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III.
On attracting investments and digital advancement, DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, BOI Vice Chair Ceferino S. Rodolfo, and DICT Secretary Henry Aguda discussed ongoing efforts to draw high-impact projects and accelerate the nation's digital transformation.
Streamlining Regulations for Business Ease
A significant focus was placed on improving the business climate. Regulatory heads from the SEC, FDA, PCC, and DENR—represented by Chair Francisco Lim, Director General Paolo Teston, Chair Michael Aguinaldo, and Undersecretary Jonas Leones respectively—highlighted initiatives to streamline processes and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, making it easier for enterprises to operate.
The discussions also featured insights from the private sector, with notable business leaders like BDO Unibank Chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson and Ayala Corporation Chair Jaime Augusto Zobel De Ayala contributing their perspectives. DepDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan also participated in the comprehensive talks.
The event, jointly organized by the BSP and the Department of Finance (DOF), reinforced the government's pledge to fiscal discipline and wise spending. It marked a clear step towards a strengthened partnership between the public and private sectors, with the shared goal of boosting investor confidence and driving sustainable economic growth for the Philippines.
