The “Build Better More” program has emerged as the cornerstone of the Marcos administration’s economic transformation agenda, moving beyond traditional infrastructure projects to create a comprehensive ecosystem that attracts investment, generates employment, and positions the Philippines as a regional economic powerhouse.
Far exceeding its predecessor programs in scope and ambition, Build Better More represents a paradigm shift in how the Philippines approaches development—prioritizing not just the quantity of projects, but their strategic impact on economic competitiveness and quality of life for ordinary Filipinos
Regional development and economic decentralization
Build Better More strategically distributes projects across regions to promote balanced economic development. Rather than concentrating infrastructure in Metro Manila, the program spreads investments to secondary cities and rural areas, creating new centers of economic activity.
This regional approach reduces migration pressure on Metro Manila while creating employment opportunities in provinces. Infrastructure investments in secondary cities attract businesses and investments that might otherwise locate only in the capital region.
The program includes special economic zones and industrial parks connected by improved transportation and digital infrastructure, creating integrated development corridors that span multiple provinces and regions.
Job creation and skills development
Infrastructure projects under Build Better More generate both immediate construction employment and long-term economic opportunities. The program prioritizes projects that create sustainable employment beyond the construction phase.
Skills development initiatives accompany major projects, ensuring Filipino workers can take advantage of employment opportunities in construction, maintenance, and operation of new infrastructure. This approach builds local capacity while reducing dependence on foreign expertise.
The multiplier effects of infrastructure investment extend throughout the economy, creating demand for materials, equipment, and services that benefit small and medium enterprises across various sectors.
Water security and flood management
Build Better More addresses climate resilience through comprehensive water infrastructure projects. These include new water treatment facilities, improved distribution systems, and major flood control projects that protect communities and economic assets.
The program’s flood control component includes river dredging, improved drainage systems, and construction of flood retention facilities. These projects not only protect lives and property but also ensure business continuity during extreme weather events.
Water infrastructure projects are designed with climate change adaptation in mind, incorporating higher capacity and more resilient designs to handle increasingly intense weather patterns. This forward-thinking approach protects investments and ensures long-term functionality.
Housing and social infrastructure
The housing component of Build Better More has initiated 56 projects in various stages by February 2025, building on the 1.2 to 1.3 million housing units started by early 2023. These projects address the massive housing backlog while creating employment in construction and related industries.
Social infrastructure within Build Better More includes schools, hospitals, and community centers that improve quality of life while supporting economic development. These facilities are strategically located to serve growing populations in developing areas.
The integration of housing with transportation and employment centers creates sustainable communities that reduce commuting costs and improve work-life balance for Filipino familEnergy security and independence
Energy infrastructure represents perhaps the most strategic component of Build Better More. The interconnection of power grids across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao creates a unified national power system that enhances reliability, reduces costs, and enables more efficient power distribution across the country.
This grid interconnection allows surplus power from one region to support demand in another, reducing the risk of brownouts and creating a more stable business environment. The project also facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources, supporting the country’s transition to cleaner power generation.
The administration’s nuclear technology agreements with the United States signal a long-term commitment to energy independence. These partnerships position the Philippines to eventually reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels while meeting growing energy demands from economic expansion.
Solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects under Build Better More are strategically located to take advantage of the Philippines’ natural resources while supporting the interconnected grid system. This integrated approach maximizes the efficiency and reliability of the entire power system.
Digital infrastructure
Build Better More recognizes that 21st-century economic competitiveness requires world-class digital infrastructure. The program includes significant investments in fiber optic networks, 5G deployment, and digital connectivity projects that reach underserved areas.
Executive Order No. 32 streamlined ICT infrastructure permits, accelerating the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure essential for the digital economy. This regulatory reform complements physical infrastructure investments to create a comprehensive digital transformation.
The focus on digital infrastructure has attracted major international investments, including Google’s expanded operations in the Philippines. These investments validate the administration’s strategy of creating an enabling environment for technology companies and digital services.
