A Davao business executive and government officials welcomed the key economic priorities outlined by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, saying the administration’s agenda provides a strong foundation for long-term growth while emphasizing the need for faster implementation of reforms.
Business leader and chairperson of the BIMP-EAGA Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Joji Ilagan-Bian described the President’s commitment to reducing the tax burden on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as one of the most significant highlights of the address.
“Among the most meaningful aspects of the President’s SONA were his commitment to easing the tax burden on MSMEs and SMEs to encourage business growth, his unwavering stand in defending the Philippines’ sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea, and his renewed focus on food security, agriculture, healthcare, and education. These are priorities that can strengthen both our economic resilience and our national security,” Bian said.
She also welcomed the administration’s push for digital transformation, saying it reflects the evolving needs of the business environment.
“The inclusion of digital transformation is also one of the key highlights that resonates with the current environment,” she added.
Bian likewise commended the President’s stronger anti-corruption stance, particularly the continuing investigations into alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects.
“Continuing to pursue investigations into alleged corruption in flood control and other infrastructure projects is significant. The real measure, however, is whether investigations remain impartial and result in accountability regardless of political affiliations and self-interest,” she said.
Meanwhile, Honorary Consul of Finland to Mindanao Antonio Peralta said the business community views the administration’s strategic direction as a positive signal for investors and economic expansion.
“In sum, the business sector looks at the administration’s strategic direction premised on digital preparedness, energy security, trade expansion, and regulatory streamlining as a strong base for long-term growth,” Peralta said.
However, he stressed that more efforts are needed to address continuing economic challenges.
“Further action is needed on easing inflation, maintaining fiscal stability, and pushing for greater public infrastructure spending. Obviously, more could have been done, such as lowering inflation, prudent fiscal management, increased infrastructure spending, and less politics in governance given the challenges we all face,” he added.
For his part, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno said the President’s 2026 SONA presented a comprehensive roadmap aimed at strengthening the economy, improving public services, enhancing energy security, and accelerating inclusive development.
Magno highlighted the President’s statement that he serves all Filipinos, emphasizing that justice and the rule of law should prevail over personal relationships.
He also welcomed the President’s directive to pursue amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to remove system loss charges from electricity consumers, describing the proposal as a significant step toward making power more affordable, particularly in Mindanao where reliable and reasonably priced electricity is vital for economic growth.
“The President’s commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Filipinos through tax relief, expanded healthcare services, digitalized government assistance, and reforms in the energy sector reflects a shared goal of making public service more responsive, accessible, and people-centered,” Magno said.
He added that the administration’s continued support for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), along with its focus on agriculture, infrastructure, investment promotion, disaster resilience, and regional connectivity, will help create more opportunities for Mindanao to realize its economic potential.
