More than 200 leaders from business, government, academe, and civil society gathered at the University of the Philippines BGC Campus in Taguig City for a conference aimed at turning national development plans into concrete action.
Organized by the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands, the event called “Actionize the Missions of Economic Compass Pillars 5 (ECOMP-P5)” focused on moving beyond ideas and ensuring measurable results across sectors.
Key speakers highlighted the country’s long-standing challenge of turning plans into action. Securities and Exchange Commission Commissioner Rogelio V. Quevedo said the Philippines has strong ideas but needs better execution and consistency. He noted the country’s large number of registered businesses but stressed the need to expand investment participation and strengthen local industries.
Former Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual echoed the need for coordinated action, saying the country often struggles not with ideas but with implementation and accountability. He described ECOMP-P5 as a “whole-of-nation” approach that requires collective effort.
Former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales emphasized the importance of integrity in governance, warning that corruption remains a major issue. She called for better voter education and an end to vote-buying to ensure qualified leaders are elected.
The conference also included breakout sessions where participants developed practical recommendations across the program’s five pillars. One proposal included adding a new mission under the industries and businesses pillar.
Attendees were also named the first ECOMP-P5 advocates, committing to promote the program, help implement its goals, and track the country’s progress compared to its regional peers.
Chamber president Jose Luis Yulo Jr. said the strong participation shows that different sectors are ready to work together to achieve meaningful change.
Organizers said the conference marks an important step in turning shared national goals into real outcomes.
