The country's largest business organization has outlined a strategic roadmap for the newly signed national budget, emphasizing that targeted public spending is crucial for sustaining economic momentum. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) identified five critical areas where the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) must be directed to support inclusive growth, boost competitiveness, and strengthen long-term economic resilience.
Five Pillars for Strategic Budget Allocation
In a statement issued on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the PCCI welcomed the passage of the P6.79-trillion national budget for 2026, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law on Monday, January 5. The business group stressed that while the budget's passage is positive, its implementation must translate into tangible benefits for Filipinos through transparency and consistent consultation with the private sector.
The group's first priority is a dual focus on developing both hard and soft infrastructure. This includes investments in physical transport networks, digital connectivity, and strengthening institutional capacity. The goal is to improve overall productivity and reduce operational costs for businesses across the archipelago.
Building a Future-Ready Economy
The second area of focus is on human capital. The PCCI called for stronger investment in education and workforce skills development. This is deemed essential to ensure the Philippine labor force remains competitive as global industries rapidly shift toward higher-value, technology-driven activities.
Third, the chamber emphasized enhancing trade competitiveness by strengthening supply chains. The budget should support measures to improve logistics efficiency and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks that currently burden exporters and manufacturers, hindering their global market potential.
Shielding the Economy from Shocks
The fourth priority involves building greater economic resilience to help manage inflation. PCCI cited the urgent need for initiatives that cushion both businesses and ordinary households from external economic shocks and the escalating risks posed by climate change.
Finally, the group underscored the non-negotiable importance of policies that safeguard food, water, and energy security. It warned that supply disruptions in these fundamental sectors could severely undermine economic growth and erode investor confidence in the Philippine market.
A Step Toward Fiscal Discipline
PCCI president Ferdinand "Perry" Ferrer also commented on President Marcos's recent move to veto nearly P92.5 billion worth of projects under the unprogrammed appropriations of the budget. Ferrer welcomed this reallocation, calling it a positive step toward fiscal discipline, accountability, and more transparent public spending.
"With integrity and close consultation with the private sector, the 2026 GAA can be a powerful tool for inclusive growth and job creation," Ferrer stated. The business leader's remarks highlight the private sector's role as a key partner in ensuring the national budget effectively fuels the nation's progress.
