MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte “will consider” the concerns of business groups on the proposed shift to federalism, Malacañang said on Monday.
Backing the position of some of the country’s economic managers, the business groups over the weekend urged lawmakers to “weigh carefully the costs, risks and uncertainty” associated with the shift on the country’s fiscal position and economy.
The groups include the Cebu Business Club, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., and Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc.
“This is a kind of discussion that we welcome as far as Charter change is concerned. We want this kind of discussion. We want people to think deeply about the ramifications. And we welcome all sorts of inputs from all members of society,” Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque told reporters.
“This is, of course, an input that the President will consider. And we’re hoping that the legislature who will tackle Charter change will also consider the position of the business community,” he added.
Roque said the President the wants the shift to federalism to be done “in a manner that will not put the country in trouble.”
“That’s why he is exploring now all options and has ordered that everyone should study it. He is asking members of Congress to look into the matter very seriously because ultimately, it’s Congress that will submit to the people the proposals,” the Palace official said. (With a report from GMA News/PN)
