Amenah F. Pangandaman is the incumbent Secretary of the department of Budget and management (DBM). She is the first Muslim Budget Secretary and the only female member of the country’s economic team.She carries with her 20 years of government service, having worked in the legislative and executive branches, and the Central Bank.
Philippines Eyes A-Rating by 2025: An Interview with Budget secretary Amenah Pangandaman
In a significant growth for the Philippine economy, budget secretary Amenah Pangandaman has revealed that the country is aiming for an ‘A’ rating by as early as 2025. As the first Muslim Budget Secretary and the only female member of the country’s economic team, Pangandaman brings a wealth of experience from her 20 years of government service in various sectors, including the legislative and executive branches, and also the Central Bank. In this exclusive interview, we delve into her vision, strategies, and the challenges ahead.
Starting at the Top: Amenah Pangandaman’s Journey
World Today News: Secretary Pangandaman, can you walk us through your journey in government service?
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman: indeed, I’ve had the privilege of serving in several key roles across different branches over the past two decades. This broad experience has equipped me well for my current role at the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), where I’m proud to be the first muslim Budget Secretary and the only female member of the economic team. I’ve worked in financial and economic agencies, roles that have provided me with a comprehensive view of the economic landscape.
Strategic Economic Goals: 2023-2028
world Today News: What are some of the key objectives outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028?
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman: The Philippine development Plan for 2023-2028 focuses on sustainable development and economic resilience.Our goals include upgrading GDP growth targets, improving our investment-grade status, achieving an ‘A’ rating, and driving structural reforms to ensure long-term economic stability.
Challenges and Reforms
World Today News: What challenges are you currently facing, and what reforms are being considered?
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman: One of the biggest challenges is the need for structural reforms to improve the ease of doing business. We’re addressing implementation bottlenecks, strengthening institutions, and enhancing fiscal management to boost investor confidence.Additionally, we aim to empower our economic team to make decisive actions that foster economic growth and stability.
Vision for the Future
World Today News: how do you envision the economic landscape of the Philippines in the next five years, given the current strategies?
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman: I envision a competitive, resilient, and sustainable Philippine economy. With the projected upgrades in GDP growth and our investment-grade status,we are poised for robust economic expansion. Our strategy to achieve an ‘A’ rating will solidify the Philippines as a preferred investment destination, attracting both domestic and foreign investments.
Conclusion
World Today News: Secretary Pangandaman,it has been an enlightening conversation. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman: Thank you.It has been a pleasure.
