Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez vowed that he and the House of Representatives would continue working with the private sector to make the country’s economic growth sustainable and inclusive.
The leader of the 306-member House made the commitment in his remarks at the 34th biennial convention dinner of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) Friday night, attended by 800 delegates led by the group’s president, Cecilio Pedro.
Romualdez also commended the federation for its contributions to national development and its “enduring commitment to nation-building through entrepreneurship, civic involvement, and cultural solidarity.”
He said the country, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has posted solid economic gains despite global uncertainties.
“In 2024, we recorded one of the highest GDP growth rates in ASEAN, coupled with improved credit ratings and rising investor confidence. Inflation has been tamed, the peso remains stable, and employment is growing,” he said.
He pointed out that much of the progress has been driven by the government’s proactive and collaborative approach with the private sector, particularly organizations like the FFCCCII.
“From supporting government compliance campaigns to your flagship Operation: Barrio Schools, your federation proves that businesses thrive best when they give back to society. You have built schools, organized medical missions, conducted relief efforts, and mobilized resources during national emergencies. You have done all these quietly and consistently – and for that, you have our admiration and gratitude,” he added.
Romualdez informed the Filipino-Chinese businessmen that the House would continue to push for reforms that will empower entrepreneurs, big and small.
He stressed that Congress is taking all these measures “because we believe that prosperity must be shared – and that our progress as a nation depends on the success of our entrepreneurs.”
The House leader said he was inspired by FFCCCII’s convention theme, “Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship — Key to Prosperity.” “Indeed, these are the very foundations upon which we must build a Bagong Pilipinas – one that is resilient, competitive, and inclusive,” he said.
He praised the convention’s 800 delegates “for your boldness in innovation, your discipline in business, and your deep sense of civic duty.’
“Your hard work is helping build a better, stronger, and more united Philippines,” he said.
Romualdez said FFCCCII members are celebrating not just the success of their organization “but also the vital partnership between government and business that has yielded undeniable gains for our economy and uplifted the lives of ordinary Filipinos.”