PCCI proposes 20 legislative reforms 

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is seeking the endorsement of President Marcos for 20 legislative measures that cover digital transformation, trade reforms, and regulatory modernization, aiming to promote inclusive economic growth, according to a report by Manila Bulletin.

In a statement, PCCI President Enunina Mangio said she has sent a letter to Malacañang detailing the business group’s legislative wish list.

Mangio is pushing Marcos to endorse the bills in his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) and in the 20th Congress, which is dominated by his allies.

Once approved, she said these measures will "unlock the full potential of our economy" and ensure "broadly shared and sustainable growth."

Topping the list of PCCI’s priorities is the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act, which aims to expand internet access nationwide and facilitate the entry of new telecommunications players.

The business group had earlier lauded the bill’s removal of the legislative franchise requirement for telecom operators, but warned that national security could be threatened if the government fails to impose additional safeguards.

It likewise expressed support for digital governance reforms, including the proposed Cybersecurity Act, E-Governance Act, and Artificial Intelligence Act, which shall secure the country’s digital infrastructure.

To strengthen the country’s infrastructure system, the PCCI is backing the passage of a bill that establishes a national comprehensive infrastructure master plan.

Similarly, it recommends approving the National Quality Infrastructure bill to bolster the local industry’s export competitiveness.

As the country’s largest business group, it is also calling for measures to improve the country’s logistics system while ensuring that costs remain low.

In this regard, PCCI supports the proposed International Maritime Competitiveness Act and amendments to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Act and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Charter.

Reforms in the PPA and CAAP seek to resolve conflicting mandates and enhance regulatory oversight in the shipping and aviation sectors.

For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which comprise 99 percent of businesses in the country, PCCI is urging the government to provide them with more support to help unlock their growth potential.

This is seen to be fostered by amendments to the Magna Carta for MSMEs, which target enhanced access to finance, markets, and technology.

PCCI is also pushing Marcos to prioritize agricultural and fisheries reforms, including proposals such as the Blue Economy Act, Corporate Farming Act, National Land Use and Management Act, and amendments to the Agri-Agra Law, ASIN Law, and Warehouse Receipts Act.

In a bid to reinforce the workforce, the chamber is advocating for measures establishing an apprenticeship training system and amendments to the Dual Training System Act.

Lastly, it pushes the enactment of the proposed Budget Modernization and Reform Act and Customs Amnesty Act to improve the government’s fiscal accountability.

“These measures address structural bottlenecks that hinder investment, logistics, rural development, and regulatory efficiency,” said Mangio.

“We believe President Marcos’ strong endorsement of these bills during his SONA will help fast-track their passage and demonstrate the administration’s commitment to inclusive and future-ready economic growth,” she added.

Mangio said the PCCI is willing to work with the Marcos administration and Congress to turn these proposals into reality.