The government is open to hold more dialogues with the business community on how to further enhance the country’s business climate and attract more investors.

Herminio Coloma Jr., head of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in efforts to reduce red tape in the bureaucracy and promote an environment that nurtures business to grow and said that they will continue to coordinate with the business sector on these concerns.

Coloma made the remarks after some European businessmen expressed concern over the prevalence of red tape in government that dampens investor confidence.

Henry Schumacher, European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines vice president for external affairs, reportedly wrote a letter to Senator JV Ejercito seeking measures to streamline the process of doing business in the country.

“We cannot avoid the fact there will be room for improvement and we will accept suggestions from the business sector,” Coloma said in an interview with state-run DZRB.

“That’s why our government through various agencies will continue to hold dialogues to address the needs of businessmen and hasten their transaction with the government,” he added.

Another business concern being addressed by the government is the monstrous traffic jams in Metro Manila roads. Coloma agreed there should be smooth transportation of goods to promote trade across the country.

“The government is trying to address concerns that derail the flow of commerce and trade because we value the livelihood of our people,” he said.

Despite the concerns raised by the European businessmen, Coloma noted that the Philippines’s competitiveness ranking actually jumped by seven points in the World Economic Forum’s global index on the ease of doing business.

The improved competitiveness level indicated the government’s resolve to promote a business-friendly climate in the country, he said.

Source: Manila Bulletin, 08 September 2014