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.
Speaker 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.”
“As Speaker of the House, I assure you of our continued support. Together with President Marcos, we will continue to work hand-in-hand with the private sector to create the conditions for inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-led growth,” he told FFCCCII members.
He said the country, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. 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.
“These gains are not abstract figures. They translate into more jobs, better wages, expanded MSMEs, improved infrastructure, and more opportunities for Filipino families to rise from poverty,” 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.
Speaker Romualdez informed the Filipino-Chinese businessmen that the House would continue to push for reforms that will empower entrepreneurs, big and small.
“We have passed laws to cut red tape and digitalize public services. We are modernizing our tax system to make it fairer and more business-friendly. We continue to support legislation that boosts the MSME sector, protects our local manufacturers, and promotes foreign direct investments,” he said.
“We are investing heavily in digital infrastructure and alternative energy to reduce power costs and ensure connectivity in every corner of the country. And we are reviving key sectors like tourism, agriculture, and logistics – making sure no region is left behind,” he said.
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.
Speaker 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.”
“To the incoming FFCCCII officers and the continuing members of the Federation – may you always be guided by the same spirit of excellence and service that has defined your organization for over seven decades,” he said. (END)
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez delivers the keynote address during the 34th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCII) Marriott Hotel in Pasay City Friday night. Speaker 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, uplifting the lives of the Filipino people.
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