PCCI President Benedicto Yujuico
MANILA – The country’s largest business organization, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), has urged the government to lay clear plans on the partial resumption of businesses and economic activities.
“There are many enterprises that are planning to lay off their employees. If they cannot hear a clear instruction that they can open by May, there are more that will close their businesses,” PCCI President Benedicto Yujuico said during the virtual presser of Tapatan sa Aristocrat Monday.
Yujuico said the government can adopt some of the actions and measures of other nations such as Spain and Germany, which gradually restart economic activities without jeopardizing the health of the population.
“We have to realize that we are not going to last very long. We have to plan how we can get back to business,” he added.
Yujuico said the government may also look into allowing businesses to operate at only half of its workforce.
The PCCI chief added it may not be necessary for other parts of the country to be placed under enhanced community quarantine.
“Look specifically in areas then identify what measures are necessary for that area. It’s not one size fits all,” he said.
Although businesses lauded the government’s plan to provide assistance to the sector, the PCCI asked to expedite the distribution of such aid.
“My suggestion to the Department of Finance is to focus on how we can fast track the assistance to MSEs (micro and small enterprises), for the people,” Yujuico said.
The quarantine period in Luzon was extended until April 30. (PNA)
