Business groups want anti-China casket stunt probed

MANILA, Philippines — Business groups condemned the recent use of caskets displaying anti-communist and anti-China messages and called for the conduct of swift investigation as it warned of possible negative effects on investments, trade and tourism.

“We, the undersigned Philippine business organizations, express our full support for the statement of the Department of Foreign Affairs condemning the recent use of caskets as instruments of intimidation and hatred,” the business groups said in a joint statement.

The statement was signed by the Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., Federation of Philippine Industries,Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc.

“We likewise strongly condemn these irresponsible and disrespectful acts, which violate the standards of decency, civility and respect expected in a democratic society,” the groups said.

They said such actions spread fear, deepen divisions and unfairly taint the country’sreputation as a nation committed to democracy and the peaceful expression of differing views.

Such actions also undermine confidence in the country as a safe, stable and welcoming destination for investments, trade and tourism.

As the country continues to face challenges including subdued economic growth, weak foreign investment inflows and the need to further revitalize tourism, the groups said that there is no room for such reckless acts that damage the country’s international image and undermine its 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,” the groups said.

For the groups, expressing differences should never be done through threats, intimidation or actions that incite hatred.

“Our democracy is strengthened not by fear or provocation, but by reasoned dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful engagement,” the groups said.

As such, the groups urged the Philippine National Police and other appropriate authorities to immediately investigate these incidents, identify the perpetrators and all those responsible and hold them accountable to the full extent of the law.

They emphasized that decisive action is needed to uphold public order and reinforce confidence in the country as a safe, stable and welcoming investment, trade and tourist destination.

“At this critical time, we urge 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,” the business groups said.