Palace thanks Makati Business Club for ‘vote of confidence’

The Palace on Monday thanked the Makati Business Club (MBC) for its "vote of confidence" after the group released a survey acknowledging improvements in the business environment over the past year. In the MBC’s second semester 2011 Executive Outlook Survey, 64 percent of respondents acknowledged these economic improvements. A larger majority of 76 percent projected a better economic performance over the next 12 months. MBC members particularly commended the Department of Health, which presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda described as "a pillar for our social service agenda." "The MBC members’ optimism and positive outlook on the country reaffirm that the government’s efforts to level the playing field in all sectors and secure greater opportunity for inclusive growth are bearing fruit," Lacierda said. Meanwhile, 80 percent of MBC respondents said graft and corruption charges against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo should be pursued. "We are also united in the view that although the nation has achieved palpable progress, there is much work left for us to do," Lacierda said. The MBC conducted the survey from July 19 to August 2, with over 10 percent of the group’s members participating. The MBC was perceived to have supported President Benigno Aquino III in his presidential campaign, with its former executive director, Alberto Lim, later being appointed as Tourism chief. — with Paterno Esmaquel II/RSJ, GMA News