The conviction of seven kidnappers in the abduction of a 78-year-old businesswoman has strengthened the Philippines' reputation as a safer place to invest and visit, according to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), which said swift justice can be as important as economic incentives in attracting business.

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority has a new address, but the bigger story is how the move could sharpen its investment promotion efforts while trimming costs and modernizing public service.

Taiwan has extended USD200,000 (about P12 million) in humanitarian assistance to support relief and recovery efforts for communities devastated by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, reinforcing its long-standing partnership with the Philippines in disaster response.