CanCham aims to boost ties with Phl

CEBU, Philippines - Although there is already an existing good relationship between Canada and Philippines, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (CanCham) identified key opportunities for both countries to prosper together.

CanCham president Julian Payne said in an interview that the growing Canada-Cebu links have stayed stronger given the network and extensive ties shown by the government and private sector of the two countries.

He added that the country-to-country negotiations have continuously strengthened the business relationship between Canada and the Philippines, particularly in areas of investment, trade, exchange of expertise, education, training and immigration.

“The relationship of the two countries is good but this could go better,” he said, adding that the Philippines should take advantage of such bond considering that it is currently on the verge of new era on economic development.

He cited that the biggest areas of export and import trade could be found in agri-business and food processing, taking into account that the two countries are agricultural producers.

He also said that the Philippines should work on non-tariff regulations to facilitate the smooth exchange of goods and services to and from Canada.

Given the huge potential base for both export and domestic market, Payne further noted that the Philippine manufacturing sector could exploit the local consumer market due to the growing middle-income earners and higher purchasing power of Filipinos.

Similar with the Philippines, Canada is also rich in natural resources, specifically in mining.

However, he said that as a mining country, Philippines should be able to address industry-related issues such as environmental protection, social disruption with regard to societal status and historic rights of indigenous people.

He added that the country is abundant in mining opportunities that could actually drive its economic growth but does not dare to explore other possibilities and take responsibility of its actions.

He cited that the administration is mostly focused on running after large-scale mining companies instead of chasing those illegal small-scale miners who evade taxes and cause trouble in the industry.

Payne also enumerated the creative arts industry, education,  specifically for vocational and technical courses, water supply, medical tourism, and health system as growth opportunities that the Philippines could take a look into.

He added that medical institutions in the Philippines could do much better if run by the private sector.

He admitted that there is still a shortage of medical professionals in Canada and Philippines could address the workforce demand of the former with the surplus of registered Filipino nurses who are actually unemployed.

To develop a higher chance to work in Canada, he cited that there is a need to improve the equipment and training in medical institutions and schools in the Philippines.

He said that Filipino nurses should also attain the international accreditation that is usually provided by Canadian nursing institutions in the Philippines.

He added that there is a two-way growth for the tourism industry of both countries since Filipinos and Canadians seem to enjoy a happy stay in both tourist destinations.

He also said that a typical Canadian assesses the quality and value for money when choosing where to stay rather than the luxury and lifestyle.

He added that most Canadians are eyeing the Philippines as the most-preferred destination to spend their vacation in given the accessibility through the international flights, leisure opportunities and security.

He cited that Cebu, along with Manila, Cagayan de Oro and Davao, is considered to be ideal residential hub for Canadians who prefer to stay longer in the Philippines.

“People have become more aware about the Philippines. The aviation links are getting better. We are even attracted to live here and stay for good,” Payne said, who has been staying in the Philippines for 19 years already.

Payne then added that Canadians who are known for their candor and transparency are comfortable to get along and live with Filipinos because of the latter’s English language fluency and similar religious beliefs as both countries are predominantly composed of Catholics.

Last July 3, members of CanCham - Cebu Chapter celebrated the 146th Canada Day along with government leaders, business associations and industry stakeholders at the Cebu City Marriott Hotel. /JMD (FREEMAN)