DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) says the business sector still divided on the matter of Martial Law in Mindanao that will expire at the end of the year.
In a press conference on Monday (December 9), DCCCII president John Tria said that different members of the business sector have taken both sides on Martial Law over concerns of security and business opportunity for Mindanao’s economy.
He said some businessmen prefer to have martial rule in Mindanao as it boosts local industry like banana due to tight security implementation. Martial Law was seen to have had an important role in ensuring big companies smooth operations especially in the hinterland areas.
Tria, however, also said that other businessmen prefer the absence of martial rule in Mindanao as it connotes security problems that often lead the public to fear to visit or invest in the island.
“There are always two sides of the coin. Some businesses gained from it while others did not. It depends on what sector are we talking (with),” said Tria.
Tria pointed out that despite martial rule, the chamber sought to invite big companies and traders to consider and invest in Davao.
“Despite some second thoughts on the security issue, we hosted big business conferences and trade expo to show investors that we can accommodate them,” he added.
Earlier this year, the Davao City government appealed to the President to exclude the city in the Mindanao-wide Martial Law, citing its adverse impact on tourism and investments.
The local government noted that Martial Law cost too much for the business sector and some foreign visitors due to high insurance premiums paid by companies and the impact of travel advisories by foreign governments.
The appeal was backed by both the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police while assuring the public that they will still implement tight security protocol despite the absence of martial law in the city. (davaotoday.com)
