Polls key to business hopes.

Byline: Jessica Anne D. Hermosa

The economy will likely pick up next year, but such improved prospects are hinged on peaceful elections and a smooth turnover of power, business leaders said last week.

Local and foreign business chambers, along with groups representing the country's top industries polled by BusinessWorld all pointed to better times ahead, but warned that the expected recovery could be derailed if national elections due in May go awry.

"2010 will be better than 2009, bearing no unforeseen events. The election is a concern. It has to be credible," Donald G. Dee, chairman emeritus of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), said …