Business leaders call for stronger public-private partnerships

Local

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and business leaders from Cebu and Mandaue are calling for socio-economic reforms, national stability, and stronger global competitiveness.

During a press conference at Marco Polo Hotel in Cebu City on Sunday, February 9, they emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to boost tourism, modernize industries, and attract foreign investments.

FFCCCII President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro and outgoing Cebu Mandaue Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CMFCCI) President Justin Uy urged the government to align policies with private sector initiatives to accelerate economic growth.

Pedro described Cebu as his “second hometown in the Philippines” and recognized its world-class tourism industry as a key driver of national growth.

He said strengthening tourism, agriculture, and business-friendly policies would enhance economic development.

Addressing the shutdown of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), he said the government should ease visa restrictions for Chinese tourists to maintain competitiveness.

He noted that ASEAN countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia have an advantage by offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.

Pedro highlighted the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China, first established under the regime of President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.

He said the milestone carries the theme “Para sa Kinabukasan, Pagkakaibigan ang Kailangan” (For a Better Future, Friendship is Needed).

He added that strengthening trade and investment ties would benefit both nations.

Meanwhile, Uy expressed gratitude to the FFCCCII delegation for supporting the anniversary celebration of the Cebu Mandaue Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He said Cebu plays a critical role in the economy and emphasized the need for policies that enhance global competitiveness.

He noted that Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia are advancing rapidly, warning that the Philippines risks being left behind without strategic reforms.

Pedro said economic stability and national harmony are essential for growth. He urged the Tripartite Wage Council to carefully assess economic policies before implementation.

Uy called for stronger government support for exporters to ensure competitiveness in global markets.

Key Reforms for Economic Growth

Pedro said modernizing agriculture, lowering electricity costs, and streamlining business processes would boost economic efficiency.

He also reaffirmed FFCCCII’s commitment to education, saying the organization would continue donating rural public schools to support national development.

He said the government must ensure economic policies promote business continuity and job security.

Business leaders stressed that stronger collaboration between the government and private sector is necessary to drive economic growth, strengthen industries, and position the Philippines as a competitive global economy.

They said that with the right policies, the Philippines could compete more effectively in Southeast Asia, securing long-term prosperity for its people.

On Sunday, the federation also welcomed its new set of officers, including Johnson Ng as the new CMFCCI president.(MyTVCebu)