AmCham bats for six vital economic reforms

MANILA  -The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Inc. (AmCham) is hoping that Philippine lawmakers would pass six crucial economic reform bills that it has endorsed to the current Congress.

AmCham executive director Ebb Hinchliffe told the Inquirer on Monday that they are “still optimistic” that the Senate and the House would pass these bills: Open Access in Data Transmission Act, Real Property Valuation Reform, Secrecy of Bank Deposits Act amendments, Philippine Ports Authority Charter Act amendments, Intellectual Property Act amendments and Apprenticeship Program Reform.

“Congress has been successful in approving two out of the 24 (Joint Foreign Chamber and Philippine business group) bills. Around six more are moving in the legislative mill and may still pass as we approach the last year of the legislative calendar, Hinchcliffe said.

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Despite this, the AmCham official still expressed concern that the speed at which these bills may be tackled could be affected by the upcoming midterm elections.

Meanwhile, AmCham recently elected its first female president in its more than 100-year history, with Capital One Philippines President Sara Murphy unanimously securing the position.

“With substantial experience and a forward-thinking approach, she is poised to lead AmCham Philippines into a new growth, inclusivity and innovation phase. This historic election reflects the Chamber’s commitment to diversity and equality, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of women in leadership roles,” AmCham said in a statement.

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AmCham said that Murphy’s unique perspective and leadership style would inspire positive change and open new opportunities for all members.

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As the head of Capital One Philippines, she leads a team of over 4,000 associates in the country, and also leads the company’s global expansion strategy, including the launch of its operations in South Africa.

Murphy will begin her two-year term next year, replacing the outgoing president, Frank Thiel of Quezon Power (Philippines) Ltd.