The Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands has borne witness to the country’s rich and colorful history. Founded in 1886 via royal decree, the CCPI’s origins are traced to King Alfonso XIII of Spain’s vision, through Queen Regent Maria Cristina, to establish a camara de comercio in every Spanish colony.
The CCPI lived through the Philippine Revolution against Spain, the First and Second World Wars, the nation’s transition from a commonwealth of the United States into an independent republic, and the country’s descent into dictatorship and return to democratic rule.
“We are the only building in the country with a marker given by the National Historical Commission in three languages, Spanish, English and Filipino,” said Jose Luis U. Yulo, the CCPI’s 56th president.
Guided by the theme “History Builds the Future,” the Philippines’ oldest business organization continues to play a role in nation-building through its advocacy called “Economic Compass Pillars 5,” with the pillars being The Filipino & Education, Industries & Business, The Government, Infrastructure & Environment, and The Economy.
In the 21st century, CCPI has trained the focus of its advocacy toward the fulfillment of the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): No poverty; zero hunger, good health and well-being; quality education; gender equality; clean water and sanitation; affordable and clean energy; decent work and economic growth; industry innovation and infrastructure; reduced inequalities; sustainable cities and communities; responsible consumption and production; climate action; life below water; life on land; peace, justice, and strong institutions; and partnerships for the goals.
As the Philippines loosened foreign ownership in Philippine companies with the amendment of the Foreign Investments Act last year, the CCPI has expressed guarded optimism.
“Our basic advocacy with foreign businesses is: You are welcome but within the constitutional limits of the Philippines. And we would like to have diversified multinational involvement so that we will not be dependent on monopoly control of only one country,” Yulo said.
“The Philippines is very much advocating for friendship, not only in terms of economic and business relations but also in cultural exchanges with countries that believe in private enterprise, freedom of speech, and other principles embodied in the Philippine constitution. Stronger relations lead to greater levels of trust between nations and can raise the quantity and quality of investments between countries,” he added.
