European companies in the Philippines said many of the commitments mentioned by President Marcos Jr. in his fifth State of the Nation Address are moving from announcement to implementation.
Following the SONA, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) issued a statement saying ECCP remains ready to work with the government, Congress, local government units, and the wider private sector to help turn the priorities outlined in the SONA into stronger institutions, more competitive industries, high-quality investments, and sustainable and inclusive growth.
“The President set out a clear direction: a Philippines that is more secure, more self-sufficient, and better prepared for shocks beyond its control. European businesses share that goal and are ready to contribute capital, technology, and expertise. What will make the difference over the next two years is steady implementation, predictable rules, and continued consultation between the government and the private sector,” ECCP President Dr. Diana Edralin.
ECCP Executive Director Florian Gottein said: “This SONA gave the business community a clearer sense of where public investment and reform efforts are heading. Our members are encouraged by the progress on right-of-way reform, energy development, and digital government services.”
Overall, ECCP welcomed the President’s call to move the country from crisis response toward lasting security and self-sufficiency.
For the European-Philippine business community, ECCP noted that the encouraging signal is that “many of these commitments are moving from announcement to implementation.”
Delivered amid the effects of the conflict in the Middle East, the State of National Energy Emergency, and the recent earthquakes in the Visayas and Mindanao, ECCP cited the address for setting out a broad agenda covering accountability in public spending, energy security, infrastructure, healthcare, education and digital skills, and deeper regional cooperation during the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship.
The Chamber looks forward to working alongside the government as this work continues during the remaining years of the administration.
In particular, ECCP cited the President’s emphasis on accountability in public spending and the recovery and protection of public funds.
