President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said the Philippines is ready for its transition to upper middle-income country status, urging stronger collaboration with partners to ensure inclusive and sustained growth.

In his keynote speech at the Philippine Development Forum (PDF) 2025 held at the EDSA Shangri-La in Mandaluyong City, Marcos said the country’s economic progress must be matched with reforms that reflect accountability, alignment, and national ownership.

“This Forum also marks our readiness for the next step: our transition to upper middle-income country status,” Marcos said.

The President explained that the milestone demands deeper partnerships based on shared goals, improved coordination, and stronger synergy between government, development partners, and the private sector.

Marcos also expressed gratitude to international development partners for their continued support in helping the Philippines meet its aspirations.

“Your continued trust, expertise, and support help transform our vision into tangible outcomes,” the Chief Executive said.

Marcos urged all government agencies and stakeholders to translate the Forum’s discussions into concrete action, ensuring a fair, strong, and future-ready Bagong Pilipinas.

“So, while we conclude this Forum with a Joint Declaration, we must remember: Declarations by themselves do not create results ? they do set the direction of what our collective actions will be… So long as we work together, so long as our visions are aligned, we will succeed,” said the Chief Executive. Presidential News Desk