PCCI ENERGY POSITION, RECENT ELECTION

Report #5 quotes new Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President George Barcelon as saying that PCCI highlights the need for more transmission lines and the upgrading of existing facilities, adding that “While variable renewable energy resources could be rapidly deployed in certain areas, coal is still critical to fuel the country’s economy because it is the most stable source of energy.” Good observation.

On another note, my friend and fellow BusinessWorld columnist Andrew Masigan, in his Philippine Star column, wrote a scathing attack on the PCCI election held on Dec. 3 where Mr. Barcelon was elected as the organization’s new President for 2022-2023. He wrote, “It’s a shame that such an embarrassing row has besmirched the reputation of the prestigious PCCI. It just proves that the organization needs new blood to re-institute professionalism and greater participation among members.” (“Dirty politics mars the PCCI,” Andrew J. Masigan, Philippine Star, Jan. 19).

I understand the need to have young blood in the PCCI leadership, but whatever reforms in the election procedures and other rules should have been discussed, agreed on, and instituted early in the two-year term (2020-2021) of the past President and not rushed at the last few months of his term. So the result of the election should be respected. When proposed late reforms like banning a past President from running again for the same position are not agreed on early on, then the ban should not apply.

PCCI is the biggest business organization in the country. Its leadership position on energy realism and not alarmism is important because its advise to the government has strong weight and value. minimalgovernment @gmail.com