FPI pushes for manufacturing revival

The umbrella group of producers in the country is pushing for the revival of local manufacturing through the full implementation of laws to support the sector's growth.

- Louella Desiderio

"I think it's high time to bring back manufacturing," Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) president John Reinier Dizon said in a briefing.

While some observers say that the bus has left, the FPI believes it is not too late to revive the sector, albeit acknowledging that it won't be an easy task.

"Is local production easy? Of course not. The permitting process alone without limiting to national permits, you have LGU (local government unit) permits, what not, it's hard," Dizon said.

In setting up manufacturing plants, he said firms are also concerned about how to lower the cost of investment and inputs, as well as ensuring there is demand for their products.

He said the Philippines, which has a population of around 115 million, offers a big market for locally manufactured goods.

The country is also rich in natural resources, including metallic and non-metallic minerals.