The Philippines enjoys an abundance of areas which would benefit from significant, structural reform. There is a long list of governmental and societal problems which have largely remained unaddressed for several decades. Issues of generational poverty, corruption, and infrastructural stagnation are some key concerns. In light of these pressing challenges, but limited resources and political will, one is forced to consider which reforms should be given priority. Which reforms can generate high-impact, effective changes? 

A discussion on impactful government reform is not complete without mention of public spending. Fiscal government spending plans allow observers to truly understand how their government will act. Cutting through layers of claims and promises, government spending reveals important decisions and attitudes. Government budgets can be reformulated to better address the people’s needs in healthcare, social services, and social safety nets. Citizen participation in forming budgets will hold policy makers accountable for their choices.  

Additionally, promoting good governance and the delivery of public services must be a part of any reform initiative. The Philippines over recent years has lagged behind its neighbors in Southeast Asia in addressing transparency and adhering to rule of law. Preventing corruption at source and holding offenders accountable would reap tangible benefits.  

In light of this, the Stratbase ADR Institute organized a discussion on governance reforms for the next administration. Entitled, “Impactful Governance Reforms for the Next Administration,” this event was held on 28 April 2022 (Thursday) from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Manila time.   

This event assembled a range of thought leaders who will share their ideas on the Philippine governance and which reforms the country must prioritize moving forward. Authors of the Stratbase ADR Institute Special Studies series “Beyond the Crisis: A Strategic Agenda for the Next President” discussed their research and recommendations for the next administration.  

Program

Opening Remarks 
Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit 
President, Stratbase ADR Institute 

Governance agenda for development 
Dr. Francisco “Kiko” Magno  
Trustee & Program Convenor, Stratbase ADR Institute;  
Professor of Political Science, De La Salle University 

Rethinking Public Spending Priorities Towards an Inclusive Recovery  
Ms. Zy-za Nadine Suzara 
Executive Director, iLEAD 

Digitalization Agenda 2022: Towards a resilient Philippines through digital transformation and inclusion 
Dr. Sherwin Ona 
Associate Professor, Department of Political Science and Development Studies, De La Salle University-Manila 

Lessons and prospects in Philippine political governance cutting across regimes from Marcos to Duterte 
Dr. Rizal Buendia  
Philippine Country Expert, Global V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg 
Non-resident fellow, Stratbase ADR Institute 

Host and Moderator:
Mr. Francesco Javier Pangalangan 
Executive Director, Stratbase ADR Institute