Consumer groups slam business leaders over China warnings

Three consumer and civic groups on Friday criticized business organizations for warning that worsening relations between the Philippines and China could put millions of Filipino jobs at risk, accusing them of amplifying Beijing’s economic pressure tactics to discourage the country from defending its sovereignty.

CitizenWatch, Konsyumer At Mamamayan (KM) and Bantay Konsyumer, Kuryente, Kalsada (BK3) said Filipino livelihoods should not be used to pressure the government into softening its position on China, particularly amid tensions over Philippine sovereignty and maritime rights.

The groups reacted after 22 business and labor organizations urged Manila and Beijing to ease diplomatic tensions, warning of potential job and trade losses.

CitizenWatch cited Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data showing China’s net foreign direct investment contribution to the Philippines fell from $13 million in 2024 to $3.2 million in 2025, accounting for just 0.2 percent of total net FDI.

The group also pointed to a September 2026 Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Stratbase, which found that Filipino respondents regarded the United States and Japan more favorably than China as important economic partners.

It urged business groups to scrutinize claims about potential job losses and avoid spreading economic alarmism, advocating stronger partnerships with Japan, South Korea, the United States, the European Union, Australia and fellow ASEAN economies.

Konsyumer At Mamamayan co-convenor Danilo Lorenzo “Ren” Delos Santos challenged business groups to present evidence supporting their warnings instead of frightening the public with unsubstantiated claims.

“Where’s the evidence? Don’t fool the people with alarmist statements that have no basis,” he said.

He added that the Philippines should not trade its workers’ livelihoods for silence in the face of Chinese pressure.