Business leaders and government officials in Davao welcomed the economic priorities outlined by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), describing the administration’s agenda as a positive step toward long-term growth while urging faster implementation of key reforms.
Joji Ilagan-Bian, chairperson of the BIMP-EAGA Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), said the President’s commitment to reducing the tax burden on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) was among the most significant announcements in 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 cited the administration’s push for digital transformation as a timely initiative that aligns with the changing needs of businesses.
“The inclusion of digital transformation is also one of the key highlights that resonates with the current environment,” she said.
Bian likewise welcomed the President’s tougher stance against corruption, particularly the continuing investigations into alleged anomalies involving flood control and other 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 added.
Honorary Consul of Finland to Mindanao Antonio Peralta echoed the optimism, saying the administration’s focus on digital readiness, energy security, trade expansion, and regulatory reforms sends a positive message to investors.
“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.
Still, he noted that the government must move faster in addressing persistent economic concerns.
“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 said.
Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno also welcomed the President’s 2026 SONA, describing it as a comprehensive roadmap for economic growth, improved public services, energy security, and inclusive development.
Magno underscored the President’s declaration that he serves all Filipinos and that justice and the rule of law should prevail over personal relationships.
He also backed the proposed amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) that would prohibit the passing on of system loss charges to consumers, saying the measure would help make electricity more affordable, particularly in Mindanao where reliable and reasonably priced power is crucial to economic development.
“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 continued support for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), along with sustained investments in agriculture, infrastructure, disaster resilience, connectivity, and investment promotion, would create greater opportunities for Mindanao and strengthen its role in the country’s economic growth.
