The corruption in government projects is the main concern of the private sector this year, as embodied in recommendations presented to the government by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

PCCI, the country’s largest business group, presented its resolutions detailing policy measures for the government’s adoption during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PCB&E)

Annually, the PCCI submits its PBC&E Resolution to the president, presenting its recommendations to the government to further support economic growth.

This year, the focus areas under the resolution include good governance and anti-corruption, digitalization and innovation, agriculture and energy, and the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and ease of doing business.

The top concern for the business sector this year is corruption in government projects and transactions, which it described as “unabated, continuing, and excessive.”

To combat corruption, the PCCI recommends implementing strict monitoring, transparency, and accountability mechanisms across all levels of governance.

The group said this would ensure that public officials and private partners involved in irregularities are investigated, prosecuted, and penalized to the fullest extent of the law.

At the same time, it noted that this should pave the way for the recovery of stolen public funds to “genuinely serve the Filipino people, especially the poor.”

PCCI stated that the government should also establish institutionalized open governance systems and promote greater transparency in projects, as well as create multi-sectoral oversight bodies with private sector participation.

Meanwhile, PCCI has also urged the government to invest in and adapt to artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and other emerging digital technologies.

The group stated that this would enhance efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness in public service delivery, while promoting innovation, data sovereignty, and global competitiveness.

Its recommendations include the implementation of a national AI roadmap, modernization of digital and physical infrastructure, and launching digital and AI literacy, reskilling, and innovation programs.

PCCI is also encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs), providing incentives and support mechanisms, and ensuring inclusive access to technology and connectivity nationwide.

In terms of agriculture and energy, the group is pushing the government to adopt an integrated approach to strengthen both sectors through innovation, investment, and sustainability.

Based on the PBC&E Resolution, this includes implementing a digital agricultural land mapping program, establishing cold chain and post-harvest facilities, promoting energy efficiency and conservation programs, among others.

For its resolution on MSME development and ease of doing business, the PCCI wants the government to guarantee policies and programs that enable entrepreneurs to participate actively in regional and global value chains.

The group said this, among others, includes the streamlining of regulations to ensure compliance processes, strengthening of cybersecurity and data governance frameworks, digitalization of government services, and investments in broadband networks, data centers, and common towers.

The PCCI stated that these resolutions should be pursued in synergy with all government departments, agencies, and instrumentalities.