2026 ECONOMIC BRIEFING
MEETING BAM AT THE RALLY POINT: A CALL TO ACTION FOR THE PHILIPPINES
The 2026 Economic Briefing brought together Christian business leaders and business stewards for an insightful gathering for awareness, challenge, and inspiration. With a BAM-style opening featuring prayer, devotion, and praise & worship, Elder Richard Tan, BAM Core Lead, set the tone for a day that would create the trajectory of the event.
Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon, PhD, DEPDev Policy and Planning Group, shared key updates on the nation’s economic forecast and business climate, which included the multi-faceted impact of the DPWH scandals to the nation’s economic growth. Her presentation shed light on the Philippines’ current financial landscape, but also cast a spotlight on the dark reality of corruption that contributed to the slowdown of economic development. A major scandal has rocked the government, with investigations revealing hundreds of ghost projects and widespread irregularities in thousands of projects worth billions.
The fallout has been severe, with widespread protests and pressure mounting on lawmakers to address the issue and implement reforms. Pastor Diwa Guinigundo, former BSP Deputy Governor, offered insightful feedback, highlighting the lackluster performance of the Philippine GDP. His words sowed seeds of conviction, stirring hearts to seek righteousness and justice, as stated in Amos 5:24.
Elder Edgar Trono, CEO of OMF Literature Inc., echoed this call, that the “future of the Philippines depends on the values we instill in our children today,” he said. Elder Trono emphasizes the importance of prioritizing reading and marketplace witnessing, especially for children and families. The event concluded with a Q&A session, a message of hope from Elder Richard, and a Spirit-filled closing prayer by Pastor Sherwin Velez.
As the nation grapples with these challenges, the 2026 Economic Briefing served as a clarifying call to action. The road ahead will be tough, but with collective effort and a commitment to transparency and accountability, the Philippines can overcome its challenges and emerge stronger. This event has helped to give an overview of the nation’s economic condition while giving hope and strength to the Christian business community to be resilient in its resolve to remain a light in the darkness.
The Meeting BAM at the Rally Point is clear: the Philippines needs a generation of Christian leaders and citizens who prioritize integrity, wisdom, and service. The question remains: will we rise to the challenge? The BAM movement says YES! Join us, and let’s spread His story and make history together!