World Trade Center, Pasay City
30 October 2012

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the members of the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PhilExport) to learn to adapt and adjust with the future turnout of the international export industry and remain proactive in searching for export market countries despite the current slowdown of the global economy during the 20th anniversary celebration of PhilExport at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

In his speech, the President enumerated his government’s accomplishments that led to the country’s economic development including the several credit ratings upgrades, the significant 6.1 percent increase of gross domestic product during the first quarter of 2012 and the impressive 46 record highs of the stock market.

President Aquino acknowledged the contribution of the export industry to the progress of the national economy and said, “we continue to recognize the value of exports, because your sector is one way we can truly capitalize on our greatest competitive advantage namely our people.”

He also stated that international companies such as B/E Aerospace, Luen Thai, and AG&P are investing in the Philippines because they noticed the skills, creativity and loyalty of Filipino workers.

He asked the exporters to continue striving for the welfare of the export industry, and in return, his administration will support them through tough and better times.

The Chief Executive received the first copy of PhilExport’s anniversary coffee table book from the organization’s board members led by its president, Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr.

PhilExport is the mother organization of exporters which aims to strengthen and develop the county’s export industry. It was created after the merging of the Philippine Exporters’ Foundation and Confederation of Philippine Exporters.

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