MBC to next leaders: Let's work together for inclusive growth

MANILA, Philippines — Votes have been cast and as numbers from unofficial and partial results come in, the Makati Business Club (MBC) on Tuesday said that the business community is ready to partner with government to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.

Although numbers transmitted from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) transparency server are unofficial, the MBC in a statement said they convincingly reflect the will of the electorate.

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"We welcome the clear mandate given our new leaders by our people and the credibility of the elections." It noted that the record 81 percent voter turnout indicates the "rock-solid commitment" of Filipinos to uphold democracy.

Despite the polarizing character of this elections, the MBC urged the public to support the new leaders and to let the process of genuine healing begin.

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"Friendships must be restored, mutual trust must be reestablished, and wounds must begin to heal... Let us focus on those aspirations that unite us, rather than on the issues that divide us. After all, despite our divisions, we all aspire for the common goal of authentic freedom and inclusive development."

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It also commended Comelec for the automated elections seen by many as highly credible, clean, and honest.

"It is our hope that the 2016 elections bring forth a country grounded on the principles of protecting and strengthening our democratic institutions, and on decency, integrity, justice, empathy, competence, peace and order especially in Mindanao, and respect for the rule of law," MBC said.