The UP Asian Center will conduct the public lecture, "The Singaporean Growth Model: Lessons and Insights for the Philippines," on 5 November 2026, 2:00 PM, PHT (GMT+8) at the Seminar Room, Asian Center, UP Diliman. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged due to limited seating.
ABOUT THE EVENT
Singapore’s transformation from a small, resource-constrained economy into a high-income global hub offers valuable lessons for developing countries seeking sustainable growth, social stability and broad-based prosperity. This presentation examines key features of the Singaporean growth model, including sound economic governance, anti-corruption measures, investment in human capital, infrastructure development, housing policy, compulsory savings, healthcare financing, trade and investment promotion, and long-term national planning. Drawing on Singapore’s experience and the writings of Singaporean economist and public commentator Leong Sze Hian, the presentation will explore which elements of the Singapore model may be relevant to the Philippines, while recognising that policies cannot simply be transferred from one country to another. Particular attention will be given to the Philippines’ institutional, demographic, economic and social circumstances, and to how Singapore’s experience could be adapted rather than replicated.
The presentation will conclude with practical insights and possible policy approaches for strengthening inclusive economic growth, improving social protection, developing human capital, attracting productive investment, and promoting long-term national resilience in the Philippines.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
LEONG SZE HIAN
Chairperson, Singapore Professional Centre
Leong Sze Hian has served as the president of four professional bodies, honorary consul of two countries, founding advisor to the financial planning associations of two countries. An alumnus of Harvard University, has authored four books, quoted over 1500 times in the media, has been a radio talk show host, newspaper daily columnist, Wharton Fellow, SEACeM Fellow, acting managing editor and columnist for The Online Citizen, columnist for Malaysiakini, member on the CIFA Advisory Board, executive producer of the movie Ilo Ilo (40 international awards), Hotel Mumbai (2 awards) (production executive (associate producer)), and has been invited to speak more than 200 times in about 40 countries. He has 3 Masters, 2 Bachelors degrees and 13 professional qualifications. (Taken from Leong Sze Hian.com)
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS
This forum is organized by the UP Asian Center. For inquiries, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 891-8500 loc. 3586.