Top business group warned that public intimidation tactics threaten foreign direct investment, international trade, and tourism at a delicate moment for the country’s economic expansion.

In a statement on Sunday, Aug. 9, six leading commercial associations rallied behind the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in condemning the deliberate abandonment of caskets across Metro Manila as visual threats.

The coalition cautioned that unchecked hostility risks souring commercial relations with the country’s main trading partner and undermining financial stability.

“We likewise strongly condemn these irresponsible and disrespectful acts, which violate the standards of decency, civility, and respect expected in a democratic society,” the business organizations said in the joint statement.
“Such actions seek to sow fear, inflame divisions, unfairly tarnish the Philippines’ reputation as a nation committed to democracy and the peaceful expression of differing views, and undermine confidence in our country as a safe, stable, and welcoming destination for investments, trade, and tourism,” they added.

The joint appeal comes as policymakers seek to accelerate national output amid persistent global headwinds and sluggish capital inflows. Private sector leaders stressed that domestic recovery depends heavily on maintaining an open and secure environment for international commerce.

“At a time when the Philippine economy continues to face serious challenges—including subdued economic growth, weak foreign investment inflows, and the need to further revitalize tourism—our nation cannot allow reckless acts that damage our international image or seek to undermine our diplomatic and economic relations with our largest trading partner,” the groups stated. 
“Such irresponsible actions risk undermining investor confidence, discouraging tourists, disrupting trade, and ultimately affecting the livelihoods and future opportunities of millions of Filipinos,” they added.

The signatories emphasized that political disagreements must be addressed through constructive democratic channels rather than fear tactics.

“Differences must never be expressed through threats, intimidation, or acts that incite hatred,” the coalition added. “Our democracy is strengthened not by fear or provocation, but by reasoned dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful engagement.”

To preserve market stability, the business leadership called on law enforcement agencies to take swift measure against those responsible.

“We respectfully call upon the Philippine National Police and other appropriate authorities to swiftly investigate these incidents, identify the perpetrators and all those responsible, and hold them fully accountable to the full extent of the law,” the joint statement urged. “Decisive action is essential to uphold public order and reinforce confidence in the Philippines as a safe, stable, and welcoming destination for investments, trade, and tourism.”

The unified declaration was signed by Employers Confederation of the Philippines Chairman Eduardo G. Lacson; Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. President Victor T. Lim; Federation of Philippine Industries Chairman Elizabeth Lee; Management Association of the Philippines President Dr. Donald L. Lim; Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Ferdinand Ferrer; and Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr.

Closing their statement, the groups urged citizens to support national stability and protect the archipelago's international standing.

“At this critical time, we urge all Filipinos to reject hatred and intimidation; uphold civility and mutual respect; preserve peace and national unity; safeguard the Philippines’ international reputation; strengthen our economic partnerships with all nations; and work together toward sustainable and inclusive Philippine economic recovery, greater investments, more jobs, and shared prosperity for all,” the statement concluded.