Businessmen support changing Philippine Constitution

Filipino-Chinese traders back Charter change

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:43:00 06/11/2009

MANILA, Philippines—While she has come under fire from business groups over Charter change, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has apparently found an ally in the Federation of the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII).

Speaking at the joint celebration of the country’s independence and the 8th Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day, federation president Dr. Alfonso Uy Wednesday declared that the Chinese-Filipino community was backing Charter change.

“The Chinese-Filipino community supports the move to amend the Constitution to enhance economic development and prosperity of the country,” Uy said in his welcome address at the Sofitel Hotel in Pasay City.

Ms Arroyo spoke at the same event at around noon, a few hours before protesters converged on Ayala Avenue in Makati City to protest the House’s hasty approval of Resolution No. 1109.

Ms Arroyo has consistently backed constitutional amendments, particularly those lifting protectionist economic provisions, but has distanced herself from the House approval of the resolution.

The Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines and Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines had expressed disgust at the passage of the resolution.

They dared Ms Arroyo to declare that the May 2010 elections would push through lest she would be accused of double talk.

In his address, Uy said the federation would take part in the government’s three-day job fair scheduled to open tomorrow as part of the government celebration of Independence Day.

He said the federation was also launching its “Buy Pinoy, Buy Local” movement at Club Filipino in San Juan.

“Through ‘Buy Pinoy, Buy Local’ we seek to promote our own Filipino products and services; save and create jobs; protect our workers and consumer welfare; encourage more local and foreign investments; combat smuggling and promote our local industries,” he said.