Too early to tell impact on business of Duterte's arrest

The impact of the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte on investor sentiment is still too early to tell, according to business leaders who vow to remain focused on efforts — in partnership with the government — to encourage investments into the country.

- By LOUELLA DESIDERIO and JOSE RODEL CLAPANO

Lawmakers also shrugged off concerns that the development would lead to political instability.

"What happened, to be honest, is unexpected. Because it's unexpected, it's too early to tell," Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) chairman George Barcelon told reporters yesterday, when asked to comment on the possible effect on business sentiment of the arrest of the former president on Tuesday for crimes against humanity, based on an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

For the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the development is no hindrance to promotion of trade and investments.