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Foreign business groups cite ‘shared priorities’ in Marcos Jr’s 4th Sona

BusinessMirror
July 28, 2025

 

Foreign business groups operating in the country generally welcomed the key points of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona).

In a Viber message, American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) Executive Director Ebb Hinchliffe said: “We are encouraged that President Marcos signaled a continued commitment to supporting businesses and attracting investments, especially through infrastructure development and digitalization.”

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/07/29/no-mention-of-exporters-in-sona-disappoints-groups

Hinchliffe said AmCham is also “pleased” to hear mention of the e-governance bill and the need to improve internet connectivity, saying “both are vital.”

“While some of our priority reforms, such as further liberalization in key sectors, were not specifically mentioned, we will continue to advocate for their passage,” AmCham noted.

“We also applaud the President’s emphasis on infrastructure, particularly flood control, and his commitment to fighting corruption, which are essential for improving ease of doing business,” Hinchliffe added.

GPCCI statement

The German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) welcomed President Marcos Jr.’s 2025 Sona, particularly the strong emphasis on ease of doing business, skills development, and climate action.

“These are shared priorities where German businesses are eager to contribute, through sustainable investments, technical cooperation, and long-term partnerships that support a more competitive and climate-resilient Philippines,” said Marie Antoniette Mariano, President of GPCCI. “These priorities strongly align with the values and long-term commitments of the German business community in the Philippines. They reflect areas where we are not only invested, but where we are also eager to do more: through innovation, technology, and strategic partnerships that deliver meaningful and inclusive impact. As we deepen our engagement, we also emphasize the importance of transparency and good governance in fostering a stable and attractive investment climate.”

In 2025, the Chamber has facilitated business missions in Energy and MedTech, with a Water Technologies delegation scheduled later this year. These efforts reflect the growing momentum for long-term collaboration in support of the Philippines’ sustainable development goals.

GPCCI is also working closely with Tesda on the co-certification of technical training programs, helping strengthen the country’s workforce, particularly in emerging technologies and technical fields essential for a future-ready economy.

Germany brings proven strengths in infrastructure, digitalization, and vocational training, all of which are vital to inclusive growth. As the urgency of climate action intensifies, GPCCI stands ready to support the country’s transition to a circular economy, green energy, and the creation of sustainable, high-quality jobs.

GPCCI looks forward to building on this momentum and deepening its partnership with the Philippines in pursuit of a more competitive, inclusive, and climate-smart future.

The GPCCI is the official representation of German businesses in the Philippines.

 

Source: Foreign business groups cite ‘shared priorities’ in Marcos Jr’s 4th Sona | BusinessMirror