CLARK FREEPORT — Several business organizations based in Central Luzon welcomed the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s proposed amendments to RA 7227, citing the measure’s role in creating more inclusive communities and in spurring economic growth in the region and the country.
These organizations, namely the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham), Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry- Tarlac (PCCI-Tarlac), Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MACCI), and the Pampanga Business Development Coordinating Council (PBDCC), have delivered their messages of support for the proposed amendments, as encapsulated in House Bill 8505 and Senate Bill 2647.
“Supporting the proposed amendments means endorsing a future where increased investments flow into our country fostering inclusivity for all Filipinos. These amendments will not only enhance the economic landscape of Pampanga and Region 3, but will also contribute to a more prosperous and inclusive Philippines,” PamCham president Teresa David-Carlos said.
Aileen Uy-Chan, president of PCCI-Tarlac, said the proposed amendments would encourage more private businesses to invest in the country, and drive opportunities for growth throughout all sectors of the economy.
“This will surely open a lot of partnerships in investments and shared development, with a domino effect of economic opportunities for many sectors of surrounding territories. We would like to see this happen, especially for Central Luzon, and we look forward to seeing these opportunities open to all—from corporations to MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises), employees to professionals, foreigners, and locals alike,” she noted.
For his part, PBDCC president Ronald Malicdem said: “These amendments will help BCDA towards economic growth, which includes the extension of BCDA’s term for another 50 years. Highlight of these amendments is the housing and economic opportunity, which is consistent with the priority projects and plans of the government.”
Fostering inclusive development
In particular, the business groups supported the proposal to convert a portion of BCDA’s economic zones from leasehold to freehold in order to provide inclusive socioeconomic development in the region.
