‘Economic bills among gov’t priorities’

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang assured businessmen yesterday that their proposals to boost the economy are in line with the government’s legislative priorities.

“There are several bills, economic in nature, that are part of the priority measures that we have submitted to the LEDAC (Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council)… There are a number of them that need to be re-filed in the incoming Congress for them to be deliberated upon,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said over radio dzRB.

“Normally, we ask for very specific pieces of legislation, what they think must be passed. We will see what we have in our priority and what else they can suggest,” she added.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said the government should prioritize getting vital economic bills approved in the incoming Congress, particularly those that would ensure fair competition among businesses.

Valte said the government is doing everything it can to improve the business climate to encourage more investments and ensure inclusive growth.

The 7.8 percent economic growth in the first three months – boosted largely by strong manufacturing and consumer spending – was the highest in Asia, topping even China’s 7.7 percent growth.

PCCI vice chairman Donald Dee said President Aquino should ensure that the next Congress, which is dominated by pro-administration lawmakers, would focus on economic bills.

He said the PCCI is preparing a list of needed economic bills and would come up with an announcement in July.

“The President is given full control of Congress. Now is the best time to pass the economic bills,” Dee said.

PCCI president Miguel Varela had said they would propose the passage of a fair competition law to level the playing field among investors.

Varela also cited the need to pass the rationalization of fiscal incentives, Customs Modernization and Tariffs Act, Land Use Code, Land Administration Reform Act, and amendments to the Mining Act.

He also cited the need to relax restrictions in the entry of foreign capital and in the practice of certain professions.

The PCCI is also proposing an amendment to the Constitution to raise the limit on foreign ownership.

But the President had said amending the Constitution, even if only its economic provisions, is not a priority of his administration.