Instead of complaining, talk about solutions

At the recent Nordic Ambassadors Forum hosted by the Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (NordCham) last week at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati, Denmark’s Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin’s remarks struck me the most as being direct and to the point in dealing with the Philippines’ current political and economic malady.

- MARIANNE GO

The gist of Ambassador Melbin’s speech was that even though there is a lot to complain about, instead of complaining, talk about solutions.

And the solutions, for the Danish envoy is clear and direct — adopting transparency in processes and digitalization to eliminate arbitrary assessments and institutionalize standardized processes.

He frankly criticized the Philippines’ “unfair tax systems for foreign companies” and “judgemental” tax assessment that “creates loopholes” for corruption as there are no clear standard processes that are followed.

“Having clarity in law and processes is important,” he said, especially if “government wants investors to come to the country.” He added further that “government must take bold steps to clean up.”

Ambassador Melbin acknowledged that President Marcos and Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla are working to bring to accountability those involved in corruption. The Philippine government, he commented, must “be ready (to) completely take the steps that are necessary, to actually punish (those who are corrupt).”

But Ambassador Melbin was also aware of the “unfortunately, a widespread culture, accepting (corruption)... and colonial practices in this country...we have to see how this really will play out”.

NordCham president Bo Lindqvist echoed Ambassador Melbin’s view, agreeing that without trust and transparency, which most Nordic countries adhere to, investments will not be forthcoming.

And there is no arguing latest investment statistics that already show, as of August, foreign direct investment inflows have dropped by 40.5 percent.

All four Nordic ambassadors of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, focused on the theme “Trust and Transparency: Nordic Values in Action,” highlighting how these values guide leadership, strengthen institutions and build partnerships.