Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said the milestone reflects growing international trust in the country’s sound economic policies and reform agenda.
Domestic consumption
“The Philippines has consistently remained as one of the fastest-growing emerging markets over the past 15 years, outpacing ASEAN-4 economies and G20 emerging markets,” Go said.
He attributed the sustained expansion to the country’s young and dynamic population, which continues to drive domestic consumption.
According to the OECD report, the Philippine economy has grown at an average of over 6 percent annually since 2011. In comparison, ASEAN-4 economies expanded by around 5 percent, while G20 emerging markets grew at just under 4 percent.
Strong growth record
OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann cited the country’s progress in recent decades.
“The Philippines has made exceptional progress in securing strong growth and boosting incomes, living standards, and opportunities,” Cormann said.
The Philippines participated in the survey for the first time alongside regional peers Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
OECD Economic Surveys are periodic reviews that assess economic developments, identify key challenges, and provide policy recommendations to support sustainable growth.
Reform momentum continues
The Department of Finance led interagency discussions for the drafting of the survey, which covered the review period from March 24, 2025 to Jan. 30, 2026.
The report highlighted priority reforms in competition, trade and investment, public governance, labor markets, and climate policy.
Go said the survey offers an evidence-based roadmap to accelerate inclusive growth through prudent macroeconomic management and structural reforms.
He added that the administration remains committed to liberalization measures, stronger public-private partnerships, modernized trade systems, and improved regulatory quality to position the Philippines as a premier investment destination. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
