The following is the direct joint statement of six Philippine business organizations
JOINT STATEMENT OF PHILIPPINE BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS UPHOLDING INVESTOR CONFIDENCE, CIVILITY AND STABILITY IN THE PHILIPPINES
August 7, 2026
We, the undersigned Philippine business organizations, express our full support for the statement of the Department of Foreign Affairs condemning the recent use of caskets as instruments of intimidation and hatred.
We likewise strongly condemn these irresponsible and disrespectful acts, which violate the standards of decency, civility, and respect expected in a democratic society. 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.
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. Such irresponsible actions risk undermining investor confidence, discouraging tourists, disrupting trade, and ultimately affecting the livelihoods and future opportunities of millions of Filipinos.
Differences must never be expressed through threats, intimidation, or acts that incite hatred. Our democracy is strengthened not by fear or provocation, but by reasoned dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful engagement.
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. 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.
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.
Signed:
EMPLOYERS CONFEDERATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (ECOP)
Eduardo G. Lacson
Chairman
FEDERATION OF FILIPINO CHINESE CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, INC. (FFCCCII)
Victor T. Lim
President
FEDERATION OF PHILIPPINE INDUSTRIES (FPI)
Elizabeth Lee
Chairman
MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (MAP)
Dr. Donald L. Lim
President, 2026
PHILIPPINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (PCCI)
Ferdinand Ferrer
President
PHILIPPINE EXPORTERS CONFEDERATION, INC. (PHILEXPORT)
Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr.
President
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
