MANILA, Philippines — Former finance chiefs expressed their support for the return of unused funds of government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs), a move which they believe would bring substantial benefits to the Filipino people.

In a joint statement, former prime minister and Finance secretary Cesar E. A. Virata and former Finance secretaries Jose Pardo, Alberto Romulo, Jose Isidro Camacho, Margarito Bustaliño Teves and Cesar Purisima said mobilizing the excess funds of GOCCs would enable important public projects that could strengthen the economy and ensure long-term gains through more jobs, higher incomes and help reduce poverty.