Major business organizations in the Philippines are demanding concrete legal action against high-ranking officials implicated in the country's flood control infrastructure scandal. This strong stance aims to restore both public trust and investor confidence, which business leaders believe will stimulate investments and reverse the nation's slowing economic growth.
Call for Accountability and Justice
Employers' Confederation of the Philippines president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. emphasized that Filipinos are waiting for visible results in the form of legal convictions related to the flood control controversy. Speaking in Filipino during a Net 25 interview, the business leader stressed that the public needs to see responsible parties held accountable.
"There should be someone to be sued and jailed and Filipinos need to see this issue addressed," Ortiz-Luis stated. "The search is for a mastermind, not just anyone."
Economic Implications and Growth Concerns
The business sector remains concerned about the country's economic performance, particularly after the Philippine economy recorded a four percent year-on-year GDP growth for the third quarter of 2025. This figure represents a decline from the 5.2 percent growth recorded during the same period in 2024.
Ortiz-Luis expressed optimism about recovery prospects, noting that "We can still catch up. Our GDP for the last 25 years has always been at five percent, no matter what trouble is happening in the Philippines." He emphasized that the current slowdown isn't irreversible, but stressed the importance of convincing investors that the country is seriously addressing its problems.
Business Support and Agricultural Exports
Despite the corruption allegations surrounding flood control projects, Ortiz-Luis affirmed the business sector's continued support for the Marcos administration. "You know the business sector, we want stability for the economy and the citizenry, so we support the administration," he explained.
However, he added a sense of urgency to his endorsement: "We just ask that this problem be solved immediately. We don't have time to dilly-dally anymore; people are impatient."
In more positive news for the export sector, Ortiz-Luis, who also serves as Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. president, highlighted the exemption of several Philippine agricultural exports from United States tariffs as "good news" for the country. Based on the November 14 US government announcement, newly exempted products include:
- Coconut products
- Bananas
- Pineapples and pineapple products
- Dried tropical fruits
- Coffee
This development provides a welcome boost to the Philippine export industry amid ongoing domestic challenges.
