The World Trade Organization (WTO) fifth policy review of the Philippines concluded with members noting the strides the country has made in growing its economy, specifically its role in strengthening the global trading system and its “active” role in advancing negotiations for fisheries subsidies. In a statement, the WTO review panel’s chairperson, Colombia’s Juan Carlos Gonzales, added, “Members also recognized the Philippines’ contribution in promoting the work in the WTO on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).” In a separate statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said: ”Member economies of the World Trade Organization (WTO) praised the Philippines’ economic performance,” read the agency’s statement sent over the weekend.

Lim, J. C. (2019, April 2). WTO review cites PHL performance on trade, fisheries, MSMEs. BusinessWorld, p. S1/4.