Marcos pushes transparency as key to lasting reform

MANILA, Philippines—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscored Friday that genuine and lasting improvements in government can only be realized through transparency.

He made the remarks during the initial public offering (IPO) listing ceremony of Maynilad Water Services, Inc., which coincided with the start of trading at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) in Taguig City.

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“As we face the many challenges ahead, from climate change to the rebuilding of public trust, may this day remind us that reform is built on work done with honesty,” Marcos said.

“Because I believe that when we do things with purpose and excellence, progress will flow just like water—steady and life-giving,” he continued.

The PSE defines “public listing” as the process of offering or selling a private company’s shares to the public for the first time.

Marcos described Maynilad’s public listing as a signal that the Philippines is “open, ready, and eager” for business partnerships.

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“The listing of Maynilad Water Services on the Philippine Stock Exchange is a sign of confidence in our markets and in our people,” Marcos said.

“I am also pleased to note that this occasion reflects a greater partnership between the public and private sectors, where each side contributes to our shared prosperity,” he added. /jpv/abc