AS U.S. FLAGS INVESTMENT BARRIERS Gov’t vows to fight corruption, red tape

The government is committed to cracking down on corruption and reducing red tape, which the United States cited as impediments to the Philippines’ efforts to attract foreign investments.

- By LOUELLA DESIDERIO

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque told The STAR yesterday that the government is committed to fighting corruption to clean up the system and restore public trust, acknowledging that recent corruption issues exposed in flood control projects undermine reforms aimed at boosting investor confidence.

In this light, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) sees the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure as a major step in uncovering the misuse of public funds and ensuring accountability.

The DTI is also doing its part to help build a government that the public can trust.

“We believe that honest and transparent service is key to earning the trust of our people and our business community. That’s why we're going digital, cutting red tape and making sure our processes are clear and fair,” Roque said in a Viber message.

Roque’s comments were made following the release of the US Department of State’s 2025 Investment Climate Statement on the Philippines, which cited challenges faced in attracting foreign investments, as well as recent moves to improve the overall investment climate and promote economic growth.