(Opening remarks during the 3rd General Membership Meeting of Clark Investors and Locators Association, Sept 25, 2024)
Good morning, esteemed members of CILA, friends, and colleagues.
It is my great honor to welcome you to our 3rd General Membership Meeting for 2024. As we gather today, I cannot help but reflect on the long and winding journey we’ve all taken together -particularly regarding the ongoing tax issues that have kept us on our toes since the inception of TRAIN 1 and 2, and the subsequent proposals like TRABAHO, CREATE, and CREATE MORE. These reforms, as you all know, have not only tested our resolve but have, at times, placed our position as locators and investors in precarious situations.
From the past to the current administration, every shift in tax policy has brought uncertainty to our doorstep. Many of these changes, especially the BIR Memoranda, contradicted the true intent of the law, added to our collective concerns. It felt, at times, like we were caught in a storm with no clear path forward.
Position papers were drafted one after another, and leadership remained steadfast, attending meeting after meeting and consultation after consultation-often with no end in sight. Yet, we never wavered.
I recall how, during the final moments before the second reading of the law in the Senate, Pres. Frankie and Atty. Medina called me.
The urgency was palpable—we needed to ensure our friendly Senators understood the importance of maintaining the cross-border doctrine, a principle essential to our operations as locators and investors in economic zones like Clark. Without it, our very foundation would be at risk.
Thankfully, after much effort, the bill’s journey on the 3rd reading offered us some relief. The cross-border doctrine was restored, allowing Clark and other economic and Freeport zones, especially export-oriented enterprises, to continue enjoying the benefits of being a separate customs territory. But, as you know, this victory is only partial. The road ahead for domestic enterprises within the zone remains uncertain, and the extension of certain privileges continues to be a point of contention.
This is why, dear CILA members, the battle is far from over. Yes, we’ve won significant victories, but there are still provisions that require our unwavering attention and advocacy. It’s an uphill climb, no doubt, but stopping now would be a far worse alternative.
Together, we have proven that our strength lies in our unity. As we move forward, let us remember the power of our ‘esprit de corps.’ It is this bond, this shared purpose, that has enabled us to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. As Mother Teresa once said, “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together, we can do great things.” Indeed, working together, we have already made the impossible possible.
Yes, the road ahead may still be difficult, but with all of you here today, I am confident that nothing is out of reach. Let us continue to work as one, building on our victories, and facing whatever challenges come our way.
Thank you for your presence, your commitment, and your perseverance. Welcome once again to our 3rd General Membership Meeting for 2024!
