The Stratbase Group organized the second day of the 2025 Pilipinas Conference, held at The Peninsula Manila, with discussions centered on the theme “Strengthening Economic Security and Resilience through Inclusive Governance.” Throughout the day, leaders from government and the private sector discussed key issues shaping the country’s economic security, resilience, and investments.  

In his message, Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, CEO of the Stratbase Group, emphasized that economic security is national security, noting that the Philippines must confront geopolitical, geoeconomic, climate, and governance risks through inclusive governance, transparent institutions, and strategic public–private collaboration to build a resilient and competitive economy.  

The conference was joined by key government officials, including Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vivencio Dizon, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, Department of Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Lotilla.  

Alongside government leaders, are members of the private sector, including Mr. Edgar Chua (Chairman, Makati Business Club), Mr. George Barcelon (Chairman, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry), Mr. Calixto Chikiamko (President, Foundation for Economic Freedom), Mr. Ronnie Aperocho (Executive Vice President and COO, Meralco), Mr. Celso Caballero (COO, Aboitiz Power), Mr. Paul Everingham (Chief Executive Officer, Asia Natural Gas and Energy Association), Mr. Mark Hutchinson (Director, Asia Grid and Markets, Global Wind Energy Council), Mr. Guillaume Lucci (President and CEO, Prime Infra), Mr. Ruben Camba (Managing Director for Southeast Asia, ACCIONA), Atty. Joan Adaci-Cattiling (President, OceanaGold Philippines, Inc.), Atty. Michael Toledo (Head of Government Relations and Public Affairs, MVP Group of Companies), and Mr. Jaime Urquijo (Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer, Ayala Corporation). 

The discussions were moderated by Ms. Regina Lay (Business and Economic News Editor, News Anchor, Cignal TV, and 2024 Jefferson Fellow, East West Center, Hawaii), Mr. Ron Cruz (News Anchor and Business Show Host, ABS-CBN News Channel), and Mr. Andrew Masigan (Political and Economic Columnist, The Philippine Star and BusinessWorld).  

The Stratbase Institute extends its appreciation to all speakers, moderators, and reactors for contributing to a productive second day of the 2025 Pilipinas Conference. Strengthening the country’s economic security and resilience demands transparent and inclusive governance, sustained public–private collaboration, and a whole-of-nation approach—uniting government, the private sector, civil society, and communities in addressing external shocks and domestic challenges alike, with the Pilipinas Conference serving as a platform for constructive dialogue and collective action toward a secure, competitive, and prosperous future for the Philippines.