Some 215 representatives from 83 companies in the semiconductor and electronics sector trooped here last Friday for the 109th general membership meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines, Inc. (SEIPI) at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.
In his address, Roxas stressed that the administration of President Aquino has been establishing a more conducive business environment for the industry, and added that he is very happy to see how SEIPI has grown through the years.
He also recalled his ties with the industry, noting the 12-year “engagement” he has had with SEIPI, which he described as “certainly longer than (the time) I’ve been married.”
“I just want to say how personally pleased I am to see familiar faces, to see how well you are doing, to see how united you still are, how much you’ve grown, your association and how relevant you continue to be to the economy for your individual entities and corporations, as well as for your employees and other stakeholders,” he said.
Roxas also explained how the government’s economic thrust, as presented in President Aquino's recent State of the Nation Address can help in the continuous growth of the semiconductor industry.
He likewise pointed out how plans to improve the education, agriculture and social sectors would have an effect on SEIPI member companies.
Likening the semiconductor industry to a ship that needs a better environment in order to function better, Roxas added, “No matter what you do, your ship will not ride higher unless the water level also rises. That water level really is the general societal environment in which we all live, work and play.”
“So by having a healthier population, by having more food and some less agitation for wage increases, by having a better educated population, the water level in effect rises, your ship rides higher, you’ll be able to do much better if these things have happened,” he further noted.
After his address, Roxas entertained some questions from SEIPI members during an open forum, while De Lima discussed investment trends in the country.
SEIPI is a non-stock, non-profit organization that was established in 1984. From 13 companies in its first year, SEIPI’s membership has grown to 246 as of March 2012.
The general membership consists of regular, associate, affiliate and honorary member-companies in the Philippines. Of the 246 members, 113 are Filipino-owned while 133 are foreign-owned companies. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTO:
DOTC Secretary Mar Roxas is welcomed by SBMA officials led by Chief Operating Officer Joven Reyes (extreme left of photo) upon his arrival at the Subic Bay International Airport to address the SEIPI general meeting at the Subic Bay Freeport. SBMA Director Ramon Sesdoyro and SBMA consultant Knette Fernando also welcomed Roxas.
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