By THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF
Given the various effects of COVIG-19 pandemic in the world and in the Philippines in terms of health and economic concerns, the British Chamber of Commerce Executive Chairman Chris Nelson shared his suggestions on how can the country can cope up with the crisis.
Speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS Nelson who is now in the United Kingdom said, “First, we need to be guided by the health considerations when making decisions regarding the economy. That is by ensuring that the number of cases of COVID19 in the Philippines and even deaths would be abated.”
“Because the greatest asset of the Philippines is our Filipino talents. If they are in tiptop shape, they can also do something productive at home while the lockdown is still in place. While the people are already hoping that everything will go back to normal, the need to be healthy must be everybody’s top priority”, the BCCP Executive Chairman explained.
“The second step to take is to ensure that Manila ports are operating efficiently and this will allow imports to reach the key sectors and start moving some export products as well. Logistics inevitably affect the supply chain and when the supply chain is not working efficiently, this has a domino effect “, Nelson added.
“Thus, it is important not just to look within the period of the lockdown, but also be able to make a good long term plan as far as addressing the movements of goods whether it is food or other products like PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) and other necessary raw materials,” Nelson explained.
“With the calibrated balanced approach, it would assist the Philippines’ economy and reinforce the long term opportunities for the country”, the BritCham official pointed out.
“There is really a need to get all stakeholders in drawing out the plan and I commend the government for asking inputs through a survey done by the National Economic and Development Authority. With this approach, you will see the various perspectives and would be able to come up with an informed decision”, Nelson concluded.
