The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP), ahead of the 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), outlined priority policy reforms needed to further economic development and relations between the UK and the Philippines, emphasizing the urgent need for legislative action on key business-enabling measures and efforts to reduce restrictions on foreign investment.
In a recent interview, British Chamber of Commerce Philippines Vice Chair Chris Nelson stated his “3 wishes” for the Marcos Administration, namely: (a) reducing red tape to further, assist on ease of doing husiness initiatives, (b), passage of key legislation such as the Cybersecurity Act, E-Governance Act, and Open Access in Data Transmission Act, and (c) further reduce restrictions on foreign investment.
The Chamber recognizes the significance of the following legislative priorities in creating a more competitive business environment. The Cybersecurity Act is designed to bolster the nation’s defense against cyber threats, the E-Governance Act complements the government’s digitalization efforts by institutionalizing streamlined government operations, and the Open Access in Data Transmission Act is expected to broaden access to digital infrastructure. These measures collectively address critical infrastructure needs that British and other foreign investors and businesses operating in the Philippines consider essential for sustainable growth and operational efficiency.
Looking ahead, the BCCP is set to host a significant Mid-year Briefing event featuring multiple government agencies. “We have an event on the 31st of July and we’ll have representatives from the DOF, DICT, and DTI,” Nelson announced, demonstrating the Chamber’s role in facilitating public-private dialogue on critical economic issues.
The British Chamber’s advocacy efforts are supported by its engagement with key government agencies. “We have very good connections [and] we have regular interactions.” This year, the Chamber has facilitated meetings with the economic team, namely, with the Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, and Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, underscoring BCCP’s commitment to fostering dialogue on economic development.
The Chamber’s close ties with the Philippine and the UK government and private sector underscores its commitment to advancing policy reforms that aims to enhance the Philippine economy’s competitiveness and further strengthen bilateral economic ties. Nelson further commended the current initiatives of the administration, citing that, “We are encouraged by the open discussion we have between the officials. We appreciate the progress made on reducing red tape, and we look further to see priority legislation passed in the 20th Congress. Overall, it is a good performance and we look forward to working with the Philippine government further particularly to boost trade and investment between our two countries.”
