THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) called for urgent national reforms, following the government’s recent revision of economic growth targets for 2026–2028.
The government now projects 5- to 6-percent growth in 2026, rising to 6 to 7 percent by 2028, citing the lingering impact of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ flood control corruption scandal and global trade uncertainties. FFCCCII warned that these figures must not limit the nation’s ambition.
“To truly transform lives, the Philippines must aim for 8-percent growth or more,” said FFCCCII. “Ambition is not optional; it is necessary for meaningful job creation, poverty reduction and inclusive prosperity.”
While supporting the government’s focus on health, education and employment, FFCCCII stressed that inclusivity can only emerge from a strong, fast-growing economy. Growth that benefits only a few, they noted, is growth betrayed.
The organization pointed to Vietnam, which achieved 8-percent growth in 2025 and targets 10 percent in 2026, as proof that disciplined governance, investor confidence and strategic reforms yield measurable results.
FFCCCII outlined key pillars for accelerating Philippine growth: human capital development, anti-corruption measures, industrial and agricultural growth, economics-first diplomacy, infrastructure and innovation, and tourism and creative economy.
FFCCCII emphasized that favorable macroeconomic conditions, including lower inflation and prospective interest-rate cuts, should serve as a launchpad for acceleration, not comfort.
