The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) expressed hope that this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) would not only tackle the remaining government reforms in the President’s priority Legislative-Executive Development Advisory because they strengthen accountability and public trust, but also to bring the conversation back to the economic agenda.
President Marcos Jr.’s priority Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) measures, include the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill, the Party-List System Reform Act, the Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, and the Independent People’s Commission Act.
MAP said these reforms will enable the government to pivot from politics to economic execution.
“But beyond these reforms, what we want to hear is a clear economic agenda that creates jobs, attracts investments, improves food security, lowers the cost of doing business, and restores confidence. Building economic resilience is critical to our human security in the face of mounting geopolitical challenges and approaching climate change risks,” MAP President Donald Lim said.
Lim said the exposure of the flood-control controversy was an important first step because it demonstrated that no sector should be beyond scrutiny. The investigations have sent a strong signal that the government is serious about accountability, and they must result in convictions where appropriate, stronger procurement systems, greater transparency, and ultimately better public service.
But the business group also emphasized that the public expects timely resolution and institutional reforms that prevent similar problems from happening again.
“The government must demonstrate that we can fight corruption without paralyzing development. Infrastructure projects that are legitimate, transparent, and urgently needed should continue moving,” MAP urged.
Likewise, continued investments in healthcare and education are critical because delaying public spending has its own economic cost through lost jobs, delayed investments, and slower growth.
“The solution is not to stop building, but to build with greater transparency, stronger oversight, and modern digital tools. This is precisely why reforms, such as the CADENA Act, are important — they institutionalize transparency so that the government can move faster while strengthening public accountability,” the statement added.
“The country is tired of politics. Filipinos are feeling the pressure of high living costs, businesses are facing uncertainty, and many MSMEs continue to struggle. We must fight corruption decisively, but we should not let the fight against corruption become a brake on economic growth. It is time to bring the conversation back to creating jobs, attracting investments, stabilizing food prices, and improving the daily lives of our people.”
