Makati City mayor and senatorial aspirant Abby Binay emphasized the importance of partnerships with the private sector and good governance in delivering better healthcare and education nationwide. Speaking at the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) general assembly, Binay outlined her vision for a Philippines where every citizen benefits from economic growth.
“Imagine a Philippines where every Filipino has access to free healthcare, every child is equipped for success, and job opportunities abound in a thriving economy,” Binay said. She believes that through strategic budget allocations and public-private partnerships (PPPs), Makati’s successful programs can be scaled up for national implementation.
Makati’s experience demonstrates how private sector collaborations can drive transformative progress in healthcare and infrastructure, benefiting residents significantly. “These programs are not luxuries; they are necessities that every Filipino deserves,” Binay emphasized. “There’s no reason why these benefits can’t be implemented nationwide, especially for the economically disadvantaged.”
Binay highlighted Makati’s success as proof that transformative programs are both possible and scalable. Initiatives like the Yellow Card, Project FREE, Project FEED, and job generation programs serve as blueprints for national progress. “These are achievable goals with the right priorities, partnerships, and shared commitment to progress,” she added.
Good governance is crucial for inclusive progress, ensuring resources are used wisely and decisions prioritize community welfare. Binay attributed Makati’s success to health, education, good governance, and inclusive economic growth—dubbing them the “four pillars of sustained and people-centered governance.”
In Makati, healthcare is not just a need but a fundamental right. The Yellow Card program provides comprehensive services, including regular checkups, free medicines, dialysis, and chemotherapy. These services alleviate financial burdens, allowing families to focus on well-being.
Education is also a priority. Under Project FREE, students receive free uniforms and supplies, while Project FEED provides nutritious snacks. The city is modernizing education with smart classrooms and prioritizing curriculum improvements and teacher training. “Education empowers students to dream bigger, achieve more, and contribute meaningfully to society,” Binay said.
Makati has streamlined business processes to foster a business-friendly environment, ensuring sustainable economic growth. The Makatizen Online Portal enhances efficiency and transparency, making transactions convenient for residents and companies.
“None of these achievements would be possible without good governance. Transparency, accountability, and a commitment to serving the people are at the heart of everything we do in Makati,” Binay concluded. “As your public servant, I remain committed to ensuring progress uplifts everyone, leaving no one behind.”
