A cloud of uncertainty faces the Philippines as the country welcomes a new government administration in the midst of a global health crisis and spillovers caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. With the inflation rate hitting 6.1% in June 2022, the highest figure since the rice crisis of 2018, ballooning national government debt at Php 12.50 trillion as of May, and the unemployment tally rising to 2.93 million in the same month, growth challenges and risks hurdle the country's path towards recovery.

Nonetheless, substantive benefits of the past administrations' recent milestones are recognized to increase trade and investments. These include the amendments to the Public Services Act (PSA), Foreign Investment Act (FIA), and Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA), which are expected to generate more jobs and spur growth. Against this backdrop, it is imperative to know the plans and priorities of the government's economic team to bring back the Philippines to its pre-pandemic high-growth trajectory, mitigate poverty, and reduce socioeconomic inequality.

In this context, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) invites you to a luncheon meeting with our keynote speaker, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, as he digs deeper into the key priorities of the country's premier socioeconomic planning body, as well as the Philippine state of play in terms of sustainability. This hybrid event is also an avenue for the private sector, including the European-Philippine business community to explore areas of cooperation with the government.

Important reminders:

• Food and drinks are available for attendees joining physically.
• In compliance with health and safety protocols, slots for physical attendance will be limited to fully vaccinated onsite participants only. Attendees will be required to present proof of vaccination (such as a Vax Certificate or Vaccination Card), and an accomplished health declaration form in order to enter the venue.

Please note that registration for physical attendance will close on 10 August at 12:00pm.