Business yesterday described the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as one of the best and among the most comprehensive by far, yet it finds the SONA lacking in pronouncements on how to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) which are yet to bounce back from the pandemic.
Marcos’ statement that there would be no more lockdowns due to the new coronavirus disease 2019 resonated to business as this is very crucial in economic recovery.
For Edgardo Lacson, chair of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines, the challenge now is for Filipinos to work with government and “lessen their objections and protests” and “give this government a chance.”
“It’s (SONA) very exhaustive; it covers almost all areas of governance. Business has always been saying (imposing) lockdowns is a failed strategy. But this SONA is a good start,” said Lacson said.
He added Marcos laid down “very clear directions where to bring this country in 2028 and we await for the implementation of (these) programs.”
But Lacson said Marcos did not tackle MSMEs at greater lengths although business welcomes his prioritization of infrastructure and supports his legislative measures which are geared to make the business environment more friendly.Sergio Ortiz-Luis, president of the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. shared Lacson’s observation saying business was waiting statements on the “serious implementation” of the Magna Carta on MSMEs as well as the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Law.
“I’m a bit disappointed as MSMEs are the ones who need out-of-the box solutions the most,” said Ortiz-Luis.
Ortiz-Luis also finds Marcos’ macroeconomic projections from 2023 to 2028 reasonable assumptions.
Both Lacson and Ortiz-Luis agree Marcos’ order for the distribution of more lands as well as the condonation on land payment will be a big relief to farmers.
Francis Chua, a member of the board of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, finds Marcos’ focus on food security and energy security as most relevant.
“With the ongoing Ukariane war, global food shortage and possible, fuel problems are expected . We have to appreciate the global perspective of the President,” he said.
Chua added Marcos’ digitalization strategy will make the country at par with the modern and advanced nations.
“Digitalization allows the government to run efficiently by reducing red tape and corruption,” he added.
