Most Filipinos believe private sector can expand livelihood opportunities, make goods affordable: survey

Majority of Filipinos believe that the private sector help expand livelihood opportunities and make goods that are more affordable and accessible to Filipino consumers, according to a recent Pulse Asia survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group.

In a news release, Stratbase said the survey was conducted on September 6 to 13 and asked 1,200 respondents and had a ± 3 margin of error.

Respondents were asked for ways they believe the private sector and the government can help each other to attain economic growth and development. They were given a list of choices and were asked to choose up to three answers.

Fifty-two percent of Filipinos said that the private sector can help in expanding livelihood opportunities, while 51 percent said it can help in making goods that are more affordable and accessible to Filipino consumers.

Forty-eight percent said that the private sector can help in creating higher quality jobs, while 43 percent said they improve health care services.

Other answers include developing the skills of the Filipino workforce (36 percent), improving the quality of digital services (33 percent), and developing public infrastructure (26 percent).

Stratbase Group founder and Chief Executive Officer Professor Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the private sector plays a critical role in driving economic progress by creating livelihood opportunities, enhancing productivity, and fostering innovation.

“Private enterprises have the proven ability to adapt swiftly to market needs to ensure the continuous provision of goods and services that benefit Filipino consumers and create millions of gainful employment. By leveraging its resources and expertise, the private sector can catalyze growth across multiple sectors, contributing significantly to national development,” he explained.

He believes that achieving sustained economic growth requires strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.

“The government sets the direction and creates the enabling environment, while the private sector brings in the capital, innovation, and efficiency needed to implement large-scale projects and be a reliable driver for new industries that support a multitude of linked businesses. Together, they can build a more resilient and competitive economy, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals,” Manhit said.

To further strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors and ensure economic growth and development, the Stratbase Group will be holding the Pilipinas Conference 2024 on November 6 and 7 in Makati City.