The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (PamCham), in a statement, said it stands firmly against corruption in all its forms, emphasizing that such practices undermine the integrity of the economic landscape and discourage investment.
PamCham – the business chamber dedicated to fostering a transparent and fair business environment – has expressed deep concern over recent reports of alleged extortion activities involving a municipal mayor in Pampanga.
This, after the arrest of San Simon Mayor Abundio Punsalan, who was reportedly caught accepting a bribe of ₱30 million from Real Steel Corporation, a business locator the town, in exchange for favorable treatment. The total demand allegedly amounted to ₱80 million.
According to the group, the visibility of such acts of corruption not only tarnishes the image of our local government but also threatens the trust and confidence that businesses must have to thrive in our communities.
In light of the events, the chamber commends the individual who challenged this overwhelming cycle of impunity.
According to PamCham, their bold actions exemplify the kind of integrity and resolve needed to combat unethical practices that often plague the relationship between local governments and private enterprises. It is through such bravery, they said, that we can aspire to foster an environment conducive to fair business practices, accountability, and transparency.
While calling for sobriety and faith in the investigative process, PamCham emphasizes the importance of collaboration between local businesses and government founded on trust and ethical conduct.
“As we navigate this challenging situation, we pledge our unwavering support to the businesses that are affected by these incidents and can only commiserate with those allegedly involved for they might just be victims as well of a dysfunctional system that is left unchecked,” the group said.
It added: “Together, we can still work towards eradicating corruption and ensuring a brighter economic future for all.”
