MANILA — Is the Philippines mature enough for free trade agreements or FTAs?
That issue will be addressed on Friday, February 10, when an array of Philippine experts representing the Philippine government, academe and civil society groups, plus two Manila-based ambassadors of the high-profile economies of South Korea and the European Union (EU) exchange views in an FTA morning seminar at the Dusit Hotel in Makati City.
The German Friedrick Stiftung spearheads the seminar, which will open with remarks by Jules Maaten of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.
To deliver the closing remarks is Ambassador Guy Ledoux of the EU, with whom the Philippines has been trying to conclude a partnership and cooperation agreement for years now.
The seminar has two panel discussion groups: “Lessons from FTAs” chaired by Calixto Chikiamco of the Foundation for Economic Freedom; and “Building Blocks and Roadblocks to FTAs” chaired by Prof. Solita Monsod of the University of the Philippines.
South Korea ambassador Hye Min Lee will share Seoul’s experience in free trade negotiations, while Dr. Alfredo Robles of the De La Salle University will speak on “EU-ASEAN FTA Impact Assessment.”
Other issues include “Philippine Agricultural Goods and Services: The Competitive Sector” by Agriculture Undersecretary Fred Serrano, “Good Governance: Straight Path to Free Trade” by Trade Undersecretary Adrian Cristobal, and “Pushing for Stronger Competition Policy” by Atty. Lynn Barcenas of the Trade Advisory Services.
There will be a panel discussion and an open forum, with some recommendations proposed.
Other issues to be tackled are “Legislation for Trade Agreements” by Rep. Jerry Treñas of the House of Representatives, “Liberal Reforms for Trade” by Dina Abad of the majority Liberal Party, and “Transparent Customs Administration” by John Simon of the Bureau of Customs. (PNA)
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