The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) remains cautiously optimistic about business prospects despite rising costs, governance concerns and political controversies, urging the government to restore investor confidence and accelerate reforms.
Ahead of the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo on October 13-14, PCCI president Ferdinand Ferrer said political noise must not overshadow the country’s investment opportunities.
“We want to remove all the noise that is taking over the spotlight of the Philippines outside,” Ferrer said, calling for controversies to be resolved while economic initiatives move forward.
Ferrer cited continued expansion in electronics and semiconductors, particularly AI-related manufacturing, although some investment opportunities may materialize only in 2027.
PBC chairman Pablo Gancayco said more than 50% of business resolutions submitted over the past five years had received positive government action. However, slow progress in critical sectors continues to test businesses’ patience.
This year’s resolutions will prioritize good governance, investment promotion, energy, agriculture and ease of doing business.
Business leaders are also pressing for solutions to port congestion, high logistics costs, limited financing for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), bureaucratic red tape and infrastructure delays.
To cut procurement and logistics expenses, Ferrer said PCCI is exploring a domestic business-to-business marketplace that could help companies source goods and services more efficiently.
The chamber is also pursuing trade and investment opportunities in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the halal industry, while exploring Slovenia, Sweden and other Central European markets. Three industry-specific trade missions to the European Union are planned for 2027.
The conference will focus on investment confidence, trade facilitation and infrastructure governance, with business leaders seeking faster action on reforms that could ease operating costs and unlock growth.
PCCI’s message is clear: investment opportunities remain, but restoring confidence will require more than promises. Businesses need predictable policies, lower costs and faster government action.
