By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Attendees pose for a photo opportunity following the successful World Bank Group Report Launch and Forum for the Philippines Poverty and Equity Assessment themed “Building the Filipino Middle Class: Towards Resilient Futures and Poverty Eradication” held at the Conference Room of the Henry Luce III Library.

Central Philippine University (CPU) hosted the World Bank Group’s Report Launch and Forum for the Philippines Poverty and Equity Assessment themed “Building the Filipino Middle Class: Towards Resilient Futures and Poverty Eradication” on June 10, 2026, at the Conference Room of the Henry Luce III Library.

The program opened with registration and a video presentation, followed by a prayer, the singing of the National Anthem, and the CPU Alma Mater song.

Dr. Esther Rose Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs and Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Office of the President, delivered the welcome remarks, where she welcomed the participants and emphasized that the gathering serves as an opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation on the drivers of poverty and inequality. “May the Lord God Almighty richly bless our time together so that we can go back to our respective workplaces and communities with a renewed spirit, renewed hope for our country, and a great resolve to use the information and insights from today’s dialogue in doing our share to eradicate poverty…” she added.

A message from Iloilo City Mayor Hon. Raisa Treñas-Chu was delivered by Ms. Velma Lao, Department Head of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office. “It is both an honor and a privilege to welcome you to Iloilo City for this important conversation on building the Filipino middle class and creating a future where prosperity is shared by all,” she said on behalf of Hon. Treñas-Chu.

Panel members together with Ms. Liliana Sousa during the open forum session.

Ms. Liliana Sousa, Senior Economist for Poverty and Equity of the World Bank, presented the key findings of the report, highlighting persistent challenges in poverty reduction and job creation. “This is a core analytical product of the World Bank that looks over the Philippines’ stand today and what it will take to achieve the national ambition of a Philippines that has eradicated poverty and is a predominantly middle-class society by 2040,” she emphasized.

During the panel discussion, the panelists responded to questions and issues raised during the dialogue on poverty reduction, inclusive development, and economic resilience, with the session moderated by Assoc. Prof. Ernesto Saquibal Jr., faculty member of the CPU College of Arts and Sciences. Mr. Arecio Casing, Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development – Region 6; Ms. Ma. Luisa Segovia, President of the Iloilo Business Club; and Mr. Emmanuel Areño, Executive Director of Iloilo CODE-NGO discussed key issues on development and governance, emphasizing localized strategies, the role of the private sector, and civic engagement in advancing inclusive growth.

An open forum followed, allowing participants to engage the panelists and World Bank representative on issues concerning poverty reduction, employment, inclusive development, and strategies for strengthening the Filipino middle class.

Closing remarks were delivered by Sharon Faye A. Piza, World Bank representative, who expressed appreciation for the active participation and emphasized continued collaboration, while the program was emceed by Ms. Divine Grace Sorioso, a faculty member from the CPU–College of Arts and Sciences.

The program was led on the part of the University by Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Chairperson of the Sustainable Campus Committee. It also supported the advancement of key Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).