Philippines Finance Minister

Philippines Finance Minister and Chairman of the Coordinating Council of the Philippines Assistance Program, Jesus Estanislao, spoke on his country’s economic challenges and prospects of the 1990's. Although the events and rhetoric surrounding the Philippines often appear problematic, he said that there has been significant progress toward economic recovery. “Inflation is enemy number one of the Philippines economy,” said Dr. Estanisloa. He explained that the Philippines needs to keep a healthy balance between day-to-day concerns and the long-term homework associated with economic development. Although passed by the democratic government, implementation of his broad economic reform package has been hindered by political partisanism. Dr. Estanislao was born and raised in the Philippines. He received his secondary education in the United States, with a Masters in Economics from Fordham College and a Ph.D. from Harvard. close