BUSINESSMEN on Wednesday presented a list of recommended government actions aimed at supporting economic growth and ensuring the well-being of Filipinos.

An 11-page resolution released at the conclusion of the 50th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) focused on achieving food security, developing human resources, increasing investments and creating jobs.

It was supposed to be presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who had been scheduled to speak during the conference.

Malacañang, however, earlier in the day announced that he had canceled all official engagements to focus on overseeing government efforts to alleviate the impact of an approaching storm.

"We stand ready to collaborate with the government in turning these proposals into actionable policies for the betterment of our country," the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) — the PBC organizer — said.

Resolutions committee chairman Benedicta Du-Baladad said the final proposals — deemed the most important for national development — had been trimmed from a much longer list.

Resolutions committee chairman Benedicta Du-Baladad. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA

With regard to achieving food security, the PCCI said a "multi-faceted approach" was needed to boost agricultural output, enhance market access, and ensure stable and affordable supplies.

Specifically, it called for the establishment of a technology task force, revitalization plans for key sectors, support for agricultural cooperatives, investments in logistics infrastructure, and amendments to the Agrarian Reform law.

Initiatives under these include the launch of pilot projects in a number of regions, needs assessments for the coconut, hog and aquaculture sectors, and an increase in the land retention limit to 25 hectares from five.

As for human resource development, the PCCI urged the government to reform the education system, enhance workforce skills, and improve the health care system.

It particularly recommended amendments to the Philippine Qualifications Framework law, especially the creation of a qualifications authority; the establishment of research and development centers; health care systems improvements, including Philippine Health Insurance Corp. reforms; and malnutrition intervention programs.

Lastly, to attract investments and create jobs, the PCCI proposed enhancements to infrastructure, transportation and logistics support via engagements in regulatory assessments, investment promotion legislation, the development of an infrastructure master plan, and digital transformation at the local government level.

Specific resolutions include a review of conflicting functions among agencies such as the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the Philippine Ports Authority and the passage of a comprehensive investment bill with clear incentives for export firms, domestic-oriented manufacturing and green technology initiatives.

Area-specific action requests were included in the 11-page resolution; among these were a financial aid program for coconut farmers and cold storage facilities to support seafood distribution in the Visayas and internet access in rural areas, and better road networks in Mindanao.

"The successful implementation of these resolutions and action points is vital for nurturing a resilient economy and ensuring the well-being of our citizenry," the PCCI said.

PCCI President Enunina Mangio said the resolutions were the result of a thorough consultation process, including dialogues held during previous business conferences.

"These resolutions represent the collective voice and aspirations of the business sector, reaffirming our serious commitment to collaborate with the government in realizing a progressive, sustainable and inclusive economy," she added.

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