In the age of social media, where outrage spreads faster than facts, it is all too easy to misinterpret statements and vilify individuals without fully understanding their context or intent.

Such is the case with the recent uproar surrounding the president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, whose measured remarks on the International Criminal Court (ICC) have sparked a firestorm of criticism and calls for a boycott of his businesses.

But before we rush to judgment, let us take a step back and consider the perspective of a businessman who, above all, seeks sustainability and predictability for the sake of business progress and economic stability.

The FFCCCII president’s statement that “the ICC is just doing its job” has been misconstrued as an endorsement of the court’s actions or a betrayal of national sovereignty. However, his words were not spoken as a politician or a legal expert, but as a pragmatic businessman who understands the importance of resolving uncertainties to foster a conducive environment for trade and investment.

His call for a swift resolution to the ICC’s proceedings against former president Rodrigo Duterte is not an affront to Philippine sovereignty but a plea for clarity and closure. After all, prolonged legal battles and political turmoil are anathema to business sustainability.

Pedro’s emphasis on “sustainability and predictability” resonates deeply with the business community. Entrepreneurs and investors thrive in environments where rules are clear, disputes are resolved efficiently, and the future is not clouded by endless controversies.

His statement, “Gusto namin matapos na ‘to — the sooner the better, the earlier the better,” reflects a universal desire among business leaders to move past divisive issues and focus on rebuilding the economy. It is not a call to abandon principles or ignore justice, but a recognition that prolonged instability harms everyone, especially the ordinary Filipino workers who depend on corporations and commercial establishments for their livelihood.

Critics who accuse him of being indifferent to national interests fail to see the bigger picture. Pedro is not dismissing the gravity of the ICC’s case against Duterte; he is simply acknowledging that the legal process must run its course. “Duterte is there in The Hague… He will be given a day in court. It’s up to them to prove him wrong or to prove him right. Let them decide,” he said.

This is not a statement of apathy but of respect for due process. As a businessman, he understands that disputes — whether legal or commercial — are best resolved through established mechanisms rather than through public outcry or social media trials.

The calls for a boycott of his companies are not only misguided but also counterproductive. Punishing a business leader for expressing a pragmatic view sets a dangerous precedent. It sends the message that any deviation from popular opinion, no matter how reasoned or well-intentioned, will be met with economic retaliation. If we want a society that values free expression and diverse perspectives, we must resist the urge to condemn or malign those who dare to offer a different viewpoint.

Moreover, Pedro’s stance is a reminder that the business community has a vital role to play in nation-building. While politicians and activists focus on ideological battles, businessmen are on the ground, creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to economic growth. Their priority is not to take sides in political disputes but to ensure that their companies remains resilient and dynamic.

By advocating for a swift resolution to the ICC case, the FFCCCII leader is not undermining Philippine sovereignty; he is safeguarding the interests of countless Filipinos who depend on stable businesses and a prosperous economy.