MAJOR Philippine business organizations have expressed alarm over the recent use of caskets as instruments of intimidation and hatred, fearing that it may signal high economic and reputational risk.
In a joint statement, the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop), Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport), backed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) move to condemn the said actions, stressing that it is irresponsible and disrespectful.
They claimed that these abandoned caskets found across Manila, Makati, Caloocan, and Quezon City on August 7, and believed to be targeting Chinese entities, ‘violate the standards of decency, civility, and respect expected in a democratic society.’
The groups added: ‘Such actions seek to sow fear, inflame divisions, unfairly tarnish the Philippines’ reputation as a nation committed to democracy and the peaceful expression of differing views, and undermine confidence in our country as a safe, stable, and welcoming destination for investments, trade, and tourism.’ The statement was signed by Ecop Chairman, Eduardo G. Lacson, FFCCCII President Victor T. Lim, FPI Chairman Elizabeth Lee, MAP President Dr. Donald L. Lim, PCCI President Ferdinand Ferrer, and Philexport President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr.
They noted that at a time when the Philippine economy continues to face serious challenges-including subdued economic growth, weak foreign investment inflows, and the need to further revitalize tourism-the nation cannot allow ‘reckless’ acts that damage our international image or seek to undermine the country’s diplomatic and economic relations with its largest trading partner.
‘Such irresponsible actions risk undermining investor confidence, discouraging tourists, disrupting trade, and ultimately affecting the livelihoods and future opportunities of millions of Filipinos.’
They reiterated that differences must never be expressed through threats, intimidation, or acts that incite hatred.
‘Our democracy is strengthened not by fear or provocation, but by reasoned dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful engagement,’ they said.
These business organizations also called on the Philippine National Police and other concerned authorities to swiftly investigate these incidents.
‘Identify the perpetrators and all those responsible, and hold them fully accountable to the full extent of the law. Decisive action is essential to uphold public order and reinforce confidence in the Philippines as a safe, stable, and welcoming destination for investments, trade, and tourism.’
Likewise, they urged all Filipinos to ‘reject hatred and intimidation; uphold civility and mutual respect; preserve peace and national unity; safeguard the Philippines’ international reputation; strengthen our economic partnerships with all nations; and work together toward sustainable and inclusive Philippine economic recovery, greater investments, more jobs, and shared prosperity for all.’