A Meeting of Minds: Sec. Gary Teves Visits UA&P for Discussions on PH Economy

The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) welcomed former Finance Secretary Gary Teves on June 29 for a get-together and discussion with University Professor Emeriti Dr. Bernardo M. Villegas and Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao – three distinguished economists and statesmen whose decades of public service and scholarship have helped shape economic thought and policy in the Philippines.

Former Finance Secretary Gary Teves (center) with UA&P founders Dr. Jesus Estanislao (left) and Dr. Bernardo Villegas.

Dr. Villegas, widely recognized as the country's "Prophet of Boom," and Dr. Estanislao, who also served as Finance Secretary, founded the Center for Research and Communication (CRC), the pioneering economic think tank that later became UA&P. Together with Sec. Teves, they exchanged insights on the country's economic prospects and key priorities for national development.

Among the topics discussed was the need for integrated agricultural development through a coordinated public-private sector master plan to boost productivity, strengthen food security, and create more opportunities in rural communities.

The group also emphasized the importance of investing in early childhood development, noting that proper nutrition and quality education during a child's formative years are essential to building a healthier, more productive, and globally competitive population.

Recognizing the country's growing energy needs, the discussion highlighted the importance of innovation in the energy sector to provide more affordable, reliable, and adequate energy that can support economic growth and improve quality of life.

The three economic gurus likewise exchanged insights on the country's policy direction, including expectations on the possible themes and priorities of the upcoming State of the Nation Address. Their discussion reflected the importance of aligning economic policies with the nation's long-term development goals.

The get-together reflected UA&P's continuing commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue among leaders from government, academia, and industry in pursuit of a more prosperous, inclusive, and future-ready Philippines.#