‘Have fun in Phl, bastion of good governance’

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino on Thursday urged delegates to the World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia to have fun in the Philippines, which he said is now considered a bastion of good governance.

In his speech during a dinner “cultural soiree” for WEF participants at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Aquino said that for a long time, the Philippines has followed more advanced nations in various areas and learned from their experiences and best policies.

“Now, we are proud to be able to take a role through this forum, and share with you the insights and lessons of the past four years – years in which we, as a country, made great strides,” Aquino said.

“Indeed, the Philippines is now considered a bastion of good governance,” he added.

He expressed hope that the delegates would have a good time and “be proof positive that it is fun or more fun in the Philippines.”

“This hope, in particular, is for Dr. Schwab,” Aquino said, referring to WEF founder and executive chairman Klaus Schwab.

After shunning the Philippines since his meeting with former President Ferdinand Marcos a long time ago, Schwab finally returned here not only for the WEF on East Asia hosted by the country but also to enjoy Amanpulo, an exclusive island-resort in Palawan.

“During our first meeting in Davos, he shared with me that he traveled to the Philippines during the dictatorship many decades ago, and after meeting with our dictator, he resolved never to come here again,” Aquino said. “I certainly understand why, Dr. Schwab. Neither my countrymen nor I want to repeat the experience of being under a dictator.”

Aquino attended the WEF in Davos, Switzerland in January last year.

“However, I have been told, Dr. Schwab, that you spent a few days in one of the most famous resorts in the Philippines: Amanpulo in Palawan. I am glad that you found another reason to return to the country – and that, as it appears, you have not missed out on all the fun that our country has to offer. Of course, this includes the warm and friendly nature of the Filipinos you have met recently,” Aquino added.

The President invited Schwab to either extend his stay or return to the Philippines “many, many more times in the future” so that he could explore the rest of the cultural and historical attractions, beaches and even diving sites that had all contributed to making the Philippines the most fun country in the world.

“This invitation goes out to everyone here as well,” he said, noting that Thursday night’s soiree would be a good start in that endeavor.

Aquino said it took some convincing from his economic team before he agreed to attend the WEF Leaders’ Retreat in Davos because there were so many issues and concerns here that needed his attention.

However, Aquino said at a time when the world was increasingly taking notice of the Philippines, he could not possibly turn down an opportunity to tell leaders of nations, industry and civil society the turnaround the country had been experiencing – all because of a commitment to good governance.

Aquino said the guests could even enjoy the sweltering heat as against the chilly weather in their home countries.

“My first attendance to WEF was a unique one. Not only was I given the chance to share the story of our country, I was also heartened to see that others were increasingly taking notice of our efforts to promote good governance and inclusive growth all across the world. On a lighter note, my delegation and I proved our fortitude against the howling iciness of the Davos winter, which was truly unforgettable,” Aquino said.

He said in jest he was proud to welcome the WEF delegates to a “slightly warmer setting” than Davos.

Aquino noted the gathering was taking place in the context of an increasingly prominent Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the comeback of the Philippines.

“Here, we continue the conversation: how to foster inclusive and sustainable growth together, in overcoming whatever uncertainties and challenges the future may bring. With the wealth of knowledge and experience that all you participants bring to the table, I am certain that the sessions have been meaningful – just as I am certain that, after WEF, you will all return to your professions and countries full of ideas on how to make a positive impact on the lives of others,” he said.