The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is seeking specific actions from the government in achieving food security, developing human resources, generating more investments and creating more jobs.
At the end of the two-day Philippine Business Conference in Paranaque City yesterday, the PCCI issued a set of resolutions offering comprehensive strategies for economic growth and societal welfare.
“In alignment with the goals of food security, human resources development, and investments generation, the PCCI and its local business chambers nationwide advocate these resolutions and associated action points to the government, “the group said.
In response, President Marcos Jr. in a speech read by Secretary Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic affairs, said the government recognizes the pressing challenges that continue to exist in this increasingly competitive landscape.
“We hear your concerns and are working closer with you in finding feasible and effective solutions. I urge the PCCI to continue working with us so we can achieve our collective goals. I encourage you to develop fresh ideas and explore new technologies that will propel our economy forward, faster.” Marcos said.
Marcos also expressed his administration’s full support to entrepreneurs making up the PCCI.
“We will continue to create a society where your aspirations can flourish and where your hard work can touch the lives of countless others,” Marcos said.
Go for his part vowed his office will delve into the critical issues presented by the business sector.
“My marching order from the President when I assumed this office was to help ensure the effective integration and implementation of various investment and economic policies of the government. And your insights in this regard will be highly appreciated,” Go said.
For food security, PCCI called for a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes increasing agricultural production, enhancing market access, and ensuring a stable and affordable food supply for all Filipinos.
Strategies include the establishment of a technology task force; revitalization of key agriculture products; support, including financial, for agricultural cooperatives; investments in ogistics infrastructure and; amendment of the Agrarian Reform Law to increase the land retention limit from five to 24 hectares.
On human resources, PCCI said “we urge government to reform the education system, enhance workforce skills through upskilling and reskilling initiatives, and improve the healthcare system to foster a productive population.”
Among the specific proposals call for the creation and operationalization of the Philippine Qualifications Authority; establishment of research and development centers by educational institutions; improvement of healthcare system and; implementation of malnutrition intervention programs.
To generate more investments and jobs, PCCI “we propose improving doing business in the country by enhancing infrastructure, transportation, and logistics support and to create a conducive environment for investment generation and job generation.”
PCC said these objectives will be done by engaging business in regulatory assessments on existing regulations and identify barriers to business operations.
The group also proposes the enactment of a comprehensive investment bill that outlines clear incentives for both export-oriented and domestic-oriented manufacturing and green technology sectors.
PCCI also sees the need to craft an Infrastructure Master Plan on transportation, energy, and communication with priority in farm-to-market roads and major transportation hubs.
Another proposal calls for the digital transformation of local government units by establishing a Digital Governance Initiative aimed at providing technical assistance and tools for local government units to digitize their services.
“The successful implementation of these resolutions and action points is vital for nurturing a resilient economy and ensuring the well-being of our citizenry.
We stand ready to collaborate with the Government in turning these proposals into actionable policies for the betterment of our country,” PCCI said.
