MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized that the Philippines’ future leaders must have a strong understanding of economics, saying this knowledge is crucial for creating jobs, controlling inflation, and ensuring a stable food supply.

The President made the remarks during the ASEAN Editors and Economic Opinion Leaders Forum at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City, when asked about the qualities Filipinos should look for in the country’s next leader in the 2028 elections.

“Well, number one, somebody who understands economics, that’s the first thing. That’s the life of the person who understands how to create jobs, who understands how to keep the inflation rate down, who understands how to make food supply a given, something that you can assume,” President Marcos said during a fireside chat with senior policymakers, business leaders, and media figures.

He added that a future leader should also focus on productivity, noting that economic growth stems from improving education, strengthening healthcare, and supporting policies that help Filipinos work more efficiently.

Beyond economics, the President highlighted the importance of nation-building. “We are about nation-building. I didn’t hear that anymore. So we need to have nation builders, people who want to make the Philippines better. People who actually love the Philippines and love Filipinos and want to make things better,” he said.

President Marcos also underscored that high-level leadership requires experience, credibility, and public trust. While he said he is considering some potential successors, he declined to name anyone and emphasized that he is not endorsing anyone at present.

“Not soon. Timing is everything,” he said.