In this world of stiff competition resulting from the eradication of the global trade barrier, what really counts is the ability of a country to present itself as an investment haven before the international community.
To lure foreign investors, a country must not only possess a good business climate. It should also have political stability that guarantees safety of businesses, and in order for it to show to the world that it has already achieved some degree of leadership maturity.
This year's hosting of the Philippines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit was really a good opportunity for the country to showcase before heads of states its present economic success.
In fact, visiting leaders of the 21 member economies of APEC have hailed the country's economic resurgence, calling it the result of good management that has produced reforms designed to attract more investments.
With high economic growth since the past decade, the Philippines is no longer identified as the "Sick Man of Asia." Its success has created an image of a strong economy amid the gloomy climate presently sweeping through the region.
The latest government data showed the country was able to post at least six-percent growth in the economy in the third quarter. The figure was the third highest in Asia, behind those of China and Vietnam. And economic officials are even confident the country is on track to another great performance this year.
However, whether the country can sustain the economic growth in the next few years remains to be seen. When the new administration takes over, a new style of management will also be steering the country for another six years.
Unfortunately, no one from those running for the highest position in the land has ever presented any concrete platform on the economy, as they have been busy with throwing mud at each other.
To sustain the momentum, the next president should possess the qualities of a true salesman who knows how to sell the country to the international community if we are to aim for a true economic development.