BY JEN BAYLON
ILOILO City – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo spearheaded yesterday the “What’s Up, Western Visayas” business conference, as part of the Iloilo Business Week, at the Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo in Mandurriao district here.
With the theme “Inspiring Investment through Innovation Inclusivity”, the conference gathered various business personalities who shared their insights and talked about the latest trends in the industry.
Among them was Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida, PCCI Western Visayas governor and Regional Development Council 6 co-chairperson, who presented “Unlocking Investment Opportunities in Western Visayas.”
Peñaflorida said the region holds vast potential for economic growth. With a labor force of 3.6 million people and an impressive employment rate of 95 percent, the region boasts a skilled and productive workforce.
“Overall, the Western Visayas region offers a diverse range of economic sectors, including education, tourism, healthcare, agriculture, and business, presenting numerous investment opportunities. Moreover, infrastructure flagship projects such as the Antique Airport Development Project, Iloilo-Capiz-Aklan Expressway, and Panay River Basin Integrated Development Project enhance the region’s growth potential,” he said.
The region would also be a promising destination for investors seeking to tap into emerging sectors like manufacturing, packaging, logistics, electric green vehicles, real estate, and recreation.
Former Ilonggo senator Franklin Drilon was also one of the key speakers. He discussed the economic landscape and investment opportunities in the city.
For his part, Mayor Jerry Treñas lauded the PCCI-Iloilo for organizing the event.
“It was an honor to welcome everyone to this year’s ‘What’s Up, Western Visayas’ business conference. Various business opportunities and potential networking were laid down and up for grabs as we continue to be a venue for economic growth,” the city mayor said.
Others who were present during the business conference were Honorary Vice-Consul of Monaco to the Philippines RJ Ledesma, University of Asia and the Pacific president Dr. Winston Padojinog, MEC Networks Corp. vice president Carlo Subido, motivational speaker Paulo Tibig, and Metro Manila-based lawyer Mark Gorriceta.
The Iloilo Business Week opened on Oct. 14 and will run until today.
Prince Hermaine Celo, PCCI Board of Director, said the weeklong event is a venue for promoting products, enhancing skills, building networks, and learning trends in various industries. (With a report from Philippine News Agency)/PN
