Luck plays a part, but hard work is still key to business success – businessmen

The Year of the Dragon will bring luck to business, but hard work is still the key to success, businessmen interviewed by GMA News Online said. The Chinese new year begins on January 23, the Year of the Dragon, which signifies success and happiness. “This will be a good year for business,” said Filipino-Chinese Donald Dee, vice chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). “We're positive about this year's business prospects because the government is increasing its infrastructure spending, OFW remittances continue to come in, and exports are seen recovering,” he said. He said trade with the US, the country's major trade partner, would expand this year. “It's election year in the US, and the government will pump in money in the economy, increasing consumer spending.” But the country has to watch the debt problems in Europe. “These must be resolved otherwise their economies will be in danger, and this will negatively affect our trade,” he added. Dee is chairman of Zest Airways and Central Peak Leisure and Development Inc. He is also president of Yarn Ventures Resources and Management Corporation and Redson Textile Manufacturing Corporation. Another Filipino-Chinese, Francis Chua, PCCI chairman emeritus, believes that every year is a lucky year for business. “As long as we work hard. The Philippines is a lucky country with all kinds of resources,” he said. He advised businessmen to “always feel happy that we are Filipinos, blessed by God.” Chua is also the honorary president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry and served as the Special Envoy on Trade and Investments to China. He is chairman and president of BA Securities. Aileen Clemente, president of the Philippine Travel Agencies Association, likes to think positive at the start of the year. “Business is only going to get better,” she said. Clemente, also president of Rajah Travel Corporation, said there has been renewed interest in the Philippines as a tourist destination. “Several international events will happen this year. And more global companies would like to invest here. So we really need to get our act together,” she said. She said the government is betting on tourism as it expects more tourists from Japan, China, Korea and US and more investments in tourism-related businesses.   Clemente advised businessmen to travel around the Philippines and hold meetings and conventions. “This would mean more jobs for Filipinos.” Asked what other Chinese signs are lucky this year, she said, “Tourism signs. It's more fun in the Philippines.” –OMG/KG, GMA News