THE Philippines did not hold back when it hosted the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit for the second time this year.
The government earmarked billions to fund the gathering, suspended government work and classes, and cleared roads as leaders from Apec’s 21-member economies converged in Manila to participate in the region’s most high-level business event.
Apec, which was founded in 1989, seeks to promote free trade and investment among its member economies. Through a series of meetings, ministers, leaders and the private sector from all 21 economies craft policies which will foster better trade among themselves.
The Apec-member economies account to nearly 57 percent of global gross domestic product (GDP).
As a founding member, the Philippines justified the inconvenience brought by the preparation for its second hosting by extolling the supposed economic and non-economic benefits it has reaped by having a place in the Apec table alongside world powers such as China, Japan, and the United States.
But for many Filipinos who were inconvenienced by the road closures, those who were stuck in horrible traffic to give way for special lanes, and those who do not have an inkling on what will happen in the week-long event, this is the question that resonates: Was hosting the Apec in the Philippines really worth it?
Answer the poll now posted on the INQUIRER.net homepage.
APEC in PH: Is it worth it?
(polls)
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