Minda bizmen present 6-point policy agenda
(Sun.Star Davao, 01 September 2008) THE 17th Mindanao Business Conference drafted a six-point Mindanao Business Policy Agenda for the National Government to address in order to help the business sector on the island.
First proposal is for the government to
pursue a unified private-sector led development agenda for Mindanao
agriculture, fisheries, and the food industry.
Second, is for government to support Mindanao's human resources development.
Third, forge a strong private-public sector partnership to develop a world-class Mindanao Tourism Industry.
Fourth, accelerate infrastructure development in Mindanao through
increased budgetary allocations and efficient use of resources.
Fifth, ensure efficient ports and shipping services in Mindanao.
And the last proposal was for government to accelerate development
of an environmentally and socially sustainable mining industry in
Mindanao.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was supposed to receive the
Mindanao policy agenda during the closing ceremony Friday but failed to
attend the gathering of Mindanao businessmen.
Trade and Industry Undersecretary Merly Cruz instead received the Mindanao policy agenda in behalf of the President.
PCCI regional governor for Western Mindanao and Armm Edwin Capili
said the six-point agenda is the product of an "honest-to-goodness
consultation of various stakeholders in Mindanao."
Joji Ilagan-Bian meanwhile said that the policy agenda is very
important for Mindanao "more so now because we need government support
to enable business and agriculture to meet its targets."
"If you examine closely, the policy issues would need strong
political will. And I am certain that the President is very focus now
in Mindanao and I think she knows the urgency for these policies to be
in place. We know that PGMA have the political will regarding Mindanao
concerns," Bian said. (BOT)