President Marcos has urged private corporations to lead by example in advancing transparency and environmental stewardship, calling Maynilad Water Services’ debut on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) a “milestone for good governance and sustainable growth.”

Speaking at Maynilad’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) listing ceremony in Bonifacio Global City, the President said the company’s decision to go public was “a sign of confidence in our markets and in our people,” adding that it reflects how private enterprise can serve both profit and the public good.

“With its Initial Public Offering, Maynilad welcomes scrutiny and accountability,” he said Friday, Nov. 7.

“This also sends a message that transparency is a standard that all our institutions must abide by,” he added.

The President commended Maynilad’s ongoing sustainability programs—ranging from investments in renewable energy and waste management to watershed protection and climate-resilient water systems—as examples of responsible corporate leadership.

“These are all acts of stewardship that have future generations in mind,” he said.

“All these initiatives align with our government’s agenda to build an economy that is adaptive and guided by sound governance,” he added.

Marcos also called on the company to continue serving the public with “purpose and excellence,” saying reforms rooted in honesty build the foundation for trust and progress.

“When we do things with purpose and excellence,” he added, “progress will flow just like water that is steady and life-giving,” he said.

The President said the Maynilad listing symbolizes renewed investor confidence in the Philippine economy, particularly under the administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision for a more open and business-friendly nation.

According to the PSE, “public listing” means offering or selling shares of a private company to the public. The first time securities are made available for sale to the public is called an IPO. Maynilad reportedly launched its IPO to support infrastructure development and service expansion.

“This listing invites more investors and voices into the journey of managing a precious resource,” Marcos said.

“Maynilad’s public listing signals what I have been telling the world: that the Philippines is open, ready, and eager to do business with you,” he added.

The President also lauded the partnership between the private sector and government agencies in ensuring transparent corporate practices, saying such cooperation strengthens capital markets and reinforces institutional integrity.

Beyond being an economic event, he underscored that Maynilad’s milestone reflects how collaboration between government and private entities can advance national well-being.

“I am pleased to note that this occasion reflects a greater partnership between the public and private sectors, where each side contributes to our shared prosperity,” he said.

Marcos assured Maynilad of continued government support, especially as it enters “a new phase of service” following its IPO.

“Be assured the government is always in support of your initiatives,” he said.