Duterte's business summit makes PCCI gung-ho about the economy

For the first time ever, a newly elected President will consult business leaders on economic policy even before assuming the office, according to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

President-elect Rodrigo Duterte and his economic managers will convene a consultative summit with 300 business leaders from across the country on June 20 to 21 in Davao City. The meeting is dubbed "Sulong: Hakbang Patungo sa Kaunlaran."

"This is the very first time that a President will consult the business sector before he officially assumes office," said PCCI Honorary Chairman and COO Donald Dee.

The chamber is the country's largest business group with more than 20,000 members and 130 local chapters.

Dee noted Duterte's move the business community gung-ho about the incoming administration and the economic prospects of the country.

"Biruin mo ang unang ginawa niyang formal consultation, even before he assumes [office], is with the business community," he said.

"This is an indication that Digong is very serious about his economic plans," the PCCI chief noted. Digong is the President-elect's nickname.

At the summit, incoming Finance chief Carlos Dominguez will present a 10-point economic agenda emphasizing on "... the need to maintain accelerated economic growth while ensuring that the gains are broadly shared by the Filipino people."

Duterte through his economic managers, particularly incoming Dominguez, requested the PCCI to organize the summit and make sure that all provinces are represented.

"In-include namin lahat ng local chambers namin... in the regions and provinces. Plus, kasama lahat ng Philippine business groups like Makati (Business Club)... kasama lahat," Dee noted. – VDS, GMA News