The Department of Finance (DOF) will lead the rollout of the PROGRESS program, targeting regulatory gaps, slow job creation, and investment barriers.
“When businesses grow, jobs are created. When systems improve, services become faster, more accessible. When growth reaches more people, lives and communities are transformed,” Finance Secretary Frederick Go said in a statement.
The initiative is designed to make it easier and faster for companies to operate, expand, and invest.
Smaller firms, bigger role
The program will channel support toward small and medium enterprises, particularly in clean energy and other growth sectors.
Funding and technical support aim to help SMEs scale operations, access capital, and participate in higher-value industries.
This is expected to translate into more formal jobs and a broader, more stable business base.
Execution is the key test
Implementation will be coordinated by the DOF with agencies including ARTA, DOE, DTI, and DEPDev to ensure reforms are actually delivered.
If executed well, the program could improve investor confidence, unlock private capital, and strengthen the country’s long-term economic resilience.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
