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Philippines-Taiwan Industrial Collaboration Summit

BOC, PCCI, and PHILEXPORT renew partnership to boost trade digitalization and competitiveness

51st PBC&E

The Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc.

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Global Ferronickel Holdings, Inc.

Mawell

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Lenovo

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Wilcon Depot

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ICTSI

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Meralco

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Toyota

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FFCCCII

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The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) held a briefing on the utilization of the country’s existing free trade agreements (FTAs), including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Philippines–Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement (PH–ROK FTA), PH-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the US–Philippines reciprocal tariffs arrangement.
DTI Undersecretary for International Trade Allan Gepty noted that the Philippines’ utilization rate of RCEP currently stands at around 20 percent. He emphasized that the country continues to face a significant trade deficit with our trading partners, prompting the government to proactively strengthen its information and awareness campaigns to educate businesses on how to avail of and maximize the benefits of these FTAs.
PCCI Pres. Consul Enunina Mangio welcomed the officials of DTI and expressed appreciation for updating the business community on the latest developments of the various FTAs.
PCCI leaders and representatives of the various PH industries actively participated the meeting, sharing their insights, concerns, and recommendations to effectively implement and maximize the full benefits of these FTAs.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) held a briefing on the utilization of the country’s existing free trade agreements

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) views the announcement of President Bongbong Marcos' four priority governance reform bills as a potentially transformative step toward a more stable, predictable, and transparent business environment. PCCI commends the President for focusing on these fundamental institutional reforms, which align with the private sector’s long-standing advocacy for good governance and a level playing field.
PCCI sees the four bills PBBM identified - the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill, the Partylist System Reform Act, the Citizens Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, and the Independent People’s Commission Act - as important tools for strengthening democratic institutions and fostering an environment conducive to long-term investment and economic stability.
Specifically, PCCI is strongly and unequivocally endorsing the CADENA Act, emphasizing that transparency in public expenditure is a direct catalyst for investor confidence.
"Enhanced visibility on how public funds are allocated and spent, particularly for infrastructure and procurement, reduces corruption risks, ensures fair competition, and promotes efficient use of taxpayer resources," PCCI President Consul Enunina Mangio said adding, "Once enacted into law and With robust implementation, the CADENA Act may become one of the most impactful anti-corruption and pro-investment measures we have in recent years."
The chamber likewise strongly backs the Independent People’s Commission Act (IPCA), noting that independent oversight and credible citizen participation strengthen democratic institutions and contribute to a stable policy and business environment. Predictability and accountability, PCCI stresses, are essential for sustained economic planning and industrial growth.
The chamber urged President Marcos to certify these four measures as urgent to ensure their timely deliberation and passage.
“These bills are more than governance reforms—they are confidence-building measures that signal our country’s commitment to integrity and accountability. Certifying them as urgent will help accelerate their passage and send a strong message to investors that the Philippines is serious about creating a clean, fair, and competitive business environment,” Mangio said.
PCCI sees the four bills as a cohesive governance reform package that, once passed and effectively implemented, can significantly strengthen public institutions and improve the business and investment climate. The chamber said it stands ready to engage government in constructive dialogue to support these reforms and to continue advocating for policies that deepen good governance, foster investor confidence, and promote sustainable economic growth for all Filipinos.

PCCI calls on PBBM to certify 4 priority governance reform bills as urgent

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), the Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport) and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) today issued a joint call endorsing HB 6740. Authored by TUCP Party-list Representative and House Deputy Speaker Raymond Mendoza, the bill seeks to exempt electricity sales from Value-Added Tax (VAT).
The organizations emphasized that electricity is a basic and indispensable input affecting households, small and large enterprises, and key industries. Exempting electricity from VAT would provide immediate relief to consumers.
“A VAT exemption on electricity will provide direct and immediate relief to the Filipino people. Removing this burden shows our faith that Filipinos can achieve their highest potential if we stop weighing them down with excessive taxation on our already expensive power," said House Deputy Speaker and the bill's author, TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Mendoza. “This is not only an economic measure; it is a social protection that safeguards workers and families. The benefits of cheaper power for both small entrepreneurs and major industries to grow, attract more investments, and generate decent employment for our people do not merely offset but far outweigh the cost to the Government.”
The business groups noted that high power costs remain one of the country’s biggest barriers to competitiveness, particularly in manufacturing. Removing VAT on electricity would reduce operating costs, helping factories expand production, attract new investments, and increase the sector’s contribution to GDP and job creation.
“If we want to attract investors and grow our industrial base, we must address power costs head-on,” said PCCI President Enunina Mangio said. “Removing VAT on electricity is a concrete step toward making the Philippines more competitive.”
The groups added that the measure would not only safeguard jobs but also support the creation of new ones.
“With more affordable power, industries can scale up operations, while micro, small, and medium enterprises can better manage rising expenses and sustain employment,” PCCI Chairman and Director of the Energy Committee, George Barcelon emphasized
The groups underscored that the Philippines is competing for a new wave of investments -especially energy-intensive investments such as data centers, advanced manufacturing, and digital infrastructure.
PCCI Chairman for Energy and Power David Chua noted: “We are in a global race for high-value, energy-intensive investments. Lowering electricity costs through a VAT exemption signals that our country is serious about attracting industries that create quality jobs.”
The groups further stressed that the proposed VAT exemption should be viewed not as a loss in revenue, but as a strategic investment - one that will yield returns through stronger economic activity, increased business confidence, and broader tax bases in the long run. By reducing the cost of electricity, the government empowers industry to grow, enhances productivity, and creates a more dynamic and resilient economy.
"The endorsement by business groups and the TUCP to exempt electricity sales from VAT is heartening. Finally, employers and labor have unanimously agreed that this is the measure that will free up workers and consumers from the burden of VAT and at the same time, trigger the creation of more and quality jobs for Filipino workers with prospects for better livelihoods. This is the better approach than the age-old palliatives and ayuda," expressed TUCP Vice President Luis Corral.

Business groups endorse TUCP bill exempting VAT on electricity sales Measure seen to ease consumer burden and boost economic competitiveness

The incoming Area Vice Presidents and Regional Governors across five regions come together for the PCCI Orientation and Area Planning Workshop, an essential gathering where leaders align priorities, clarify responsibilities, and build a unified direction for 2026.
Today’s session brings the entire regional network into one room to strengthen coordination, revitalize chamber operations, and ensure that PCCI’s programs, advocacies, and national initiatives are fully synchronized across all areas.
This collaborative workshop sets the tone for 2026 as the RGs and AVPs work collectively to uplift local chambers, enhance regional competitiveness, and deliver more responsive, impactful support to businesses nationwide.

The incoming Area Vice Presidents  and Regional Governors across five regions come together for the PCCI Orientation and Area Planning Workshop

PCCI Vice President for Industry and Asia Brewery President and COO Michael G. Tan recently participated at the WTO-World Bank Trade in Services for Development (TS4D) initiative in Geneva, Switzerland. The conference is a multistakeholder event aimed at not only presenting capacity building tools formed under the initiative but also providing a platform for developing countries to engage in a dialogue on how they can leverage their services for improved growth and further development.
In his intervention, Tan spoke on services being a gateway of developing countries to tap into global supply chains. He highlighted the Philippines’ strength in BPOs and the digital sector as he stressed the service industry’s impact on promoting inclusivity through employment and people empowerment.
Tan, who also sits on the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines, served as a panelist at the session entitled “Unlocking the Development Potential of Services Trade” following remarks from Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
WTO Director-General.

PCCI Vice President for Industry and Asia Brewery President and COO Michael G. Tan recently participated at the WTO-World Bank Trade

PCCI Chairman Mr. George T. Barcelon serves as a resource person at the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments’ public consultation on proposals to lift restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
Mr. Barcelon reiterated that PCCI supports amendments only in limited, specific economic areas to strengthen competitiveness, noting that the Constitution was crafted 34 years ago under conditions that have significantly changed.
He emphasized that PCCI does not endorse any specific legislation, instead calling for a transparent, inclusive, and well-studied process that safeguards economic stability.
PCCI also clarified that it is not pushing for broad changes in sensitive sectors, stressing the need to fully implement recent liberalization laws first.
During the session, Committee Chair Hon. Rufus Rodriguez acknowledged and welcomed PCCI’s position, noting the importance of the business sector’s perspective in ongoing deliberations.

PCCI Chair George T. Barcelon speaks at the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments’ consultation on easing restrictive economic provisions.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry through its Philippines-UK Business Council drives Philippine Tuna and Coconut products closer to the UK market at the PH-UK Market Exchange 101 held in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry - Export Marketing Bureau.
At said event, speakers from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the British Government and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center London shared their insights on UK consumer trends and requirements for certifications and export under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme. The workshop also included a sharing of the importance of abiding by the UN SDGs and translating and integrating them into the exporter agenda to access the UK market.
Spearheaded by the Philippines-UK Business Council led by Chair Joel Tugade in cooperation with the DTI-EMB, the event was attended by PCCI Vice President for International Affairs Jude Aguilar, Deputy Head of Mission Mike Welch, PTIC London Commercial Counsellor Asec. Celynne Layug, DTI-EMB Director Bianca Pearl Sykimte and DTI-EMB Assistant Director Atty. Kat Rivera.
PH–UK trade relations remain strong, with total bilateral trade reaching £3.0 billion in the 12 months to mid-2025, according to the latest UK Government figures. UK imports from the Philippines amounted to £1.8 billion, while UK exports to the Philippines reached £1.2 billion, reflecting growing two-way trade and continued opportunities for Philippine food products particularly in high-demand segments in tuna, coconut, and value-added goods.

PCCI’s Philippines-UK Business Council promotes Philippine tuna and coconut products in the UK via PH-UK Market Exchange 101 with the DTI–EMB

In a move to strengthen the country's trade landscape, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) have renewed their commitment to collaborate on trade facilitation, ease of doing business, and digital transformation. This strengthened partnership aims to accelerate business efficiency and enhance the Philippines' economic competitiveness.
During a meeting between BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and the leadership of PCCI and PHILEXPORT, led by Consul Enunina Mangio and Mr. Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr., the Commissioner outlined the Bureau's ongoing modernization and digitalization initiatives. He emphasized that these reforms are strategically designed to improve service delivery, minimize processing delays, and position export facilitation as a central pillar of national economic growth.
The private sector leaders expressed full support for the BOC's digitalization agenda, highlighting its critical role in boosting efficiency, transparency, and the overall ease of doing business.
“The chamber fully supports Commissioner Nepomuceno’s leadership and his proactive efforts to modernize the system," said Consul Mangio. "Through this collaboration, we can effectively streamline processes, reduce trade barriers, and foster a more competitive environment for businesses.”
The meeting also addressed key policy and operational concerns, including the proposed Customs Amnesty Program, enhanced monitoring of import duties, and the urgent need to expedite the disposal of overstaying containers to alleviate port congestion and prevent supply chain disruptions. All parties recognized that resolving these issues is vital for ensuring smoother trade flows.
“We appreciate the Commissioner’s strong focus on trade facilitation, particularly for exports and MSMEs,” added Mr. Ortiz-Luis. “Leveraging digitalization to streamline Customs processes is a decisive step toward eliminating bottlenecks, both domestically and internationally, which will ultimately enhance our export performance.”
As a concrete outcome, the organizations agreed to establish a public-private Technical Working Group (TWG). This group will institutionalize the dialogue and undertake the detailed work needed to advance the discussed policy and operational reforms, ensuring continuous coordination and timely progress on priorities.
PCCI reaffirmed its alignment with the BOC's trade facilitation thrust, underscoring that such reforms are essential for stimulating economic activity and solidifying the Philippines' position in the global market.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to pursue meaningful, actionable reforms that will benefit businesses, consumers, and the national economy.

PRESS RELEASE
19 November 2025
As the Christmas season approaches, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) remains optimistic about sustained economic activity driven by strong consumer spending and renewed business confidence.
The holiday season has long been a key period for Philippine businesses, traditionally marked by a surge in shopping, dining, and festive activity. This year, PCCI anticipates that consumer spending may remain steady–offering meaningful opportunities for businesses, particularly MSMEs, to engage customers and boost sales as the year ends.
At the same time, PCCI recognizes potential risks that could temper growth. Recent typhoons including Typhoon Uwan, caused damage in several regions, prompting households and businesses to adjust their spending away from typical holiday purchases. Combined with current political challenges, constraints in public spending and global economic uncertainties, these factors may slow consumer activity.
Despite these challenges, PCCI remains confident that the 2025 Christmas season will provide meaningful uplift to local enterprises, particularly MSMEs, which rely heavily on increasing year-end demand.
Moreover, PCCI encourages businesses to make use of digital platforms, ensure stable and reliable operations, and uphold quality service to fully maximize the holiday surge. The organization is hopeful that the Christmas season will not only uplift Filipino communities but also reinforce the momentum needed to usher in a stronger economic performance in the coming year.

PCCI STATEMENT ON CHRISTMAS OUTLOOK

PRESS RELEASE
19 November 2025
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) welcomes the Executive Order issued by U.S. President Donald Trump on 14 November 2025, lifting reciprocal tariffs on key Philippine agricultural products such as coconut, coffee, tea, tropical fruits and juices, cocoa, spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, beef, and certain fertilizers.
“The exemptions will provide much-needed relief to exporters, help safeguard jobs, and strengthen the competitiveness of Philippine products in one of our most important markets,”
PCCI President Consul Enunina V. Mangio said.
Philippine trade data shows semiconductor shipments are exempted from reciprocal tariffs. This semiconductor exports are estimated to be USD 2.5 to 3 billion, supporting economic stability and enhancing the country’s resilience in strategic industries.
With the additional exemptions of agricultural products, a large portion of Philippine exports to the US will now be exempted from reciprocal tariff.
“The PCCI appreciates the U.S.’s continued support and recognition of the Philippines’ trade leadership. This announcement underscores the strong partnership between our countries and reinforces opportunities for Filipino enterprises to expand,” President Mangio added.
The PCCI will continue working closely with the Department of Trade and Industry to support ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, ensuring Filipino businesses remain competitive in key markets. END

PCCI welcomes U.S. tariff exemptions for PH key products

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The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) held a briefing on the utilization of the country’s existing free trade agreements

PCCI calls on PBBM to certify 4 priority governance reform bills as urgent

Business groups endorse TUCP bill exempting VAT on electricity sales Measure seen to ease consumer burden and boost economic competitiveness

The incoming Area Vice Presidents and Regional Governors across five regions come together for the PCCI Orientation and Area Planning Workshop

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