DTI exec clarifies "shady"provisions in rules of trade

CEBU, Philippines - “Our goal really is to help improve the export performance of the Philippines,” this according to Bureau of International Trade Relations of the Department of Trade and Industries Assistant Director Angelo Benedictos during yesterday’s World Trade Organization National Advocacy and Consultation Programme.

Benedictos said that there are certain provisions in the rules of trade under the World Trade Organization that they need to explain.

He explained that there are some who opposed the provisions of the said policy for many reasons, one such as not being nationalistic as these only help other developing countries.

But Benedictos said that since the shift to WTO’s policies in trade, there have been a lot of advantages for the country which have been noted in the boost of some industries.

He said that earnings coming from export trading have increased, which was made possible through trade and partnerships with other developed countries.

“Because we engage with other countries does not mean we are not nationalistic, this is just our way of helping the country,” he added.

Benedictos said that the local market is only small which means the need for the country to venture in to other means like exporting which according to Benedictos benefits everyone from the companies, families, and the government who will also be earning from the taxes.

“Find a country na nagsara ng doors at ayaw makisalamuha sa mundo, tingnan mo kung umunlad,” added Benedictos stating progressive countries like China and Russia who have performed excellent results in their economy and the development of their countries while engaging with other countries.

He explained that in theories example in the economy, there would be benefits by restricting something but would be less compared to the benefits that could be achieved by being open.

Benedictos said that investors from the global market as well should not be seen as a threat but as a help to the economy because this would open opportunities like generating more jobs that could answer to the unemployment of the country and he said that there is an immediate need to adapt this.

“Hindi maghihintay ang mundo, we have to do it. We should not wait for it. Let’s study it and try to be part of it.”

He said that they are also encouraging private entities like the different chambers and companies who are also into export and trade to support them in this move and see the advantage that comes with it.

 During the forum, participants from various sectors like the government agencies, LGUs, chambers, people’s organizations and the academe were explained further on the “Multi-lateral trading system: From the International Trade Organization to the World Trade Organization” and also the Doha Development Agenda and how these have affected or benefited the agriculture market.