The Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFC) and the Philippine Business Groups have pushed for the passage of 16 legislative measures to bolster competitiveness and ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.

During last week’s meeting with the House of Representatives led by Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr., the group cited Congress for passing 30 business and economic reform measures in the 15th Congress. In recognition of this record, JFC-PBG representatives presented a Letter of Appreciation to the Speaker in praise of their work during the last two and a half years.

“We commend the efforts of lawmakers to resolve complex issues which have a deep impact on business and government interests, as well as the public welfare, once they become law,” said Michael Raeuber, President of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.

But the group said that the upcoming elections are expected to reset the progress in legislative work.

The executives noted, however, that while nine of the 30 measures had been enacted into law, 16 still remained with the Senate.

“Legislation is usually a multi year and even multi Congress process, but elections work like a reset button,” said John D. Forbes, American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines senior adviser and main author of the Arangkada Philippines report, a JFC-backed business advocacy launched in December 2010.

“If there are difficulties maintaining momentum across legislative terms, this administration is at risk of not completing key reforms before the Aquino presidency ends in 2016. The country should continue to strive to move at least twice as fast to realize its full economic potential,” he explained.

JFC-PBG members discussed business and economic reform bills yet to be enacted by Congress including: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Charter Amendments; Common Carriers and Gross Philippine Billings Taxes on airlines; Creation of a Department of Information and Communications Technology; Design Council Act; Direct Remittance to Local Government Units of Their 40% Share from National Wealth Taxes; Excise Taxes on Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cigarettes; Excise Taxes on Minerals; Fair Competition (Anti-Trust); Freedom of Access to Information; Land Administration Reform Act and; Reproductive Health.

“We trust government’s commitment in undertaking legislative reform to ensure that our strong growth is sustainable and inclusive,” noted Miguel B. Varela, President of PCCI. “Good laws attract investors and encourage businesses by creating a secure, predictable, and level playing field where firms can thrive and provide employment for the long term,” Varela said.

The joint meeting came as the country’s economic expansion — considered one of the fastest in Asia at nearly six percent in the first half — and solid fiscal position led to a ratings upgrade to just below investment grade by Moody’s Investors Service and other rating agencies. While financial inflows into Philippine stocks, bonds, and similar investments have been strong, net foreign direct investment this year has been weak and, according to a recent UNCTAD report, close to Cambodia and far behind other large regional economies.

This meeting also marked the third gathering of the JFC-PBGs and House officials to discuss legislative recommendations in Arangkada Philippines.

Source: Manila Bulletin; Business Bulletin; 20 November 2012