THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said government agencies, including local government units (LGUs), need to make public declarations renouncing corrupt practices to help improve the investment environment.

In statement Monday, PCCI Chairman George T. Barcelon, urged the agencies to make such declarations of their intention to practice good governance.

“Our country can generate even more investments arising from (agreements signed by overseas missions) if there is pronounced support for anti-corrupt practices from our government agencies and LGUs and the implementation of corresponding good governance programs,” Mr. Barcelon was quoted as saying.

The PCCI official encouraged the private sector to also practice good governance by refusing to engage in corrupt practices, including making “under the table” payments.

The PCCI said corruption and obstacles to doing business remain a problem even after the Philippines improved its performance on a global competitiveness index by 12 places to 56th among 140 countries. The study was conducted by the World Economic Forum for its Global Competitiveness Report 2018-2019.

PCCI President Alegria Sibal-Limjoco noted the business group has been in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government in promoting business-friendly practices among LGUs through the annual recognition of the “Most Business Friendly LGUs.”

“Strengthening good governance programs among national government agencies and the LGUs enhances the attractiveness of the country to foreign direct investments, encourages business expansion, promotes greater trade and fuels up inclusive growth in the locality,” Ms. Sibal-Limjoco added.

The group also welcomed President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s invitation to Japanese investors to report any such snags and promised to “kill” the problem within 24 hours. — Janina C. Lim

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