The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), in partnership with the Philippine Economic Society (PES), has launched a nationwide knowledge-sharing initiative aimed at equipping young Filipinos with a deeper understanding of the country’s most pressing economic issues—and encouraging them to pursue careers that will help shape the nation’s future.
The first installment of the Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE) series was held on July 28, 2026, at the BSP head office in Manila through the BSP Research Academy. Carrying the theme “Labor Market and Inflation,” the forum gathered leading economists, policymakers, researchers, and students for discussions on the complex relationship between employment, wages, and rising prices.
The inaugural event drew hundreds of senior high school and college students, particularly those taking up science-related courses. Beyond explaining key economic concepts, the forum sought to inspire participants to explore careers in economics, mathematics, statistics, data science, public policy, economic research, and central banking.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. underscored the growing demand for professionals who can combine analytical thinking with strong quantitative skills to address increasingly complex economic challenges.
“We need economists who understand incentives and human behavior. We need economists who can model complex systems. We need economists who can fit our concepts to the data. The secret sauce in all this is strong mathematical skills,” Remolona said.
He encouraged students to remain intellectually curious and fearless in asking difficult questions, expressing hope that many of them would one day join the BSP in shaping sound economic policies for the country.
BSP Assistant Governor Maria Margarita Debuque-Gonzales echoed the Governor’s message, saying the initiative is designed not only to strengthen participants’ understanding of the economy but also to help them recognize the many ways they can contribute to national development—as economists, statisticians, mathematicians, data scientists, entrepreneurs, public servants, or informed citizens.
The forum featured a roster of distinguished experts who tackled timely and relevant issues affecting the Philippine economy. Dr. Emmanuel C. Lallana of the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and wages, while Dr. Lawrence B. Dacuycuy of the De La Salle University School of Economics examined the relationship between minimum wages and inflation.
Adding a practical perspective, Pia Charmane O. De Jesus of the National Wages and Productivity Commission explained how minimum wage rates are determined in the Philippines. Dr. Richard B. Eden highlighted the vital role of mathematics in solving real-world problems and introduced members of the Philippine Mathematics Olympiad Team, inspiring students to pursue excellence in quantitative fields.
The program concluded with an inspirational message from former BSP Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo, who encouraged the participants to use their knowledge and skills in helping build a stronger and more resilient Philippine economy.
BSP Bank Officer Sharon A. Ang and PES President Roehlano M. Briones also emphasized the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and policymakers in strengthening economics education, research, and public engagement.
Following its successful launch in Manila, the BSP and PES will bring the Knowledge Sharing Event series to various regions across the country, expanding opportunities for students nationwide to engage with experts, deepen their understanding of economic issues, and become part of the next generation of leaders driving the Philippines’ economic future.
