As the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) Summit on Shared Prosperity concluded, a central question emerged: What kind of growth truly deserves a nation's trust?
The answer, according to Francisco Ed. Lim, chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is growth that widens opportunity, rests on strong institutions, reinforces confidence in the rules, and leaves the country more just, resilient, and inclusive.
"Sa madaling salita, hindi sapat na lumago tayo—kailangan maramdaman ng mas marami ang pag-asenso," Lim said, emphasizing that growth must be felt by more people.
This vision took concrete form on Nov. 5, 2020, when the Philippine business community signed the Covenant for Shared Prosperity—a pledge to build an economy where value is not only created but deliberately shared.
Today, at the SEC, that covenant is being translated into action through three key reforms:
First, developing people and expanding opportunity. Board diversity is encouraged, and social and gender bonds are channeling capital to women-led enterprises and underserved communities.
Second, delivering quality service and reducing barriers. SEC fees have been cut, saving the public nearly P275 million as of February 2026. Digitalization has slashed processing times from weeks to hours.
Third, fairness, ethics, and governance. The SEC is filing cases against those who destroy public trust, regardless of their stature.
"Ito ay tungkol sa pagbubukas ng pinto—para mas marami ang makapasok, makapagsimula, at makapagtagumpay," Lim concluded, underscoring that inclusive growth is the only growth worthy of a nation's trust.