CCCI hopes gov't transition will not affect CBM 2010

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry remains optimistic that this year’s Cebu Business Month celebration will gather a good number of participants despite the fact that the event will happen during a transition period in the government.

 The 14th CBM that will kick off next month will reinforce Cebu’s commitment in the environment, as it will emphasize the green practices of businesses in Cebu, and provide good information campaign to industry players.

CBM 2010 chairman Felix Tagiam said that this year’s theme “Get Inspired, Go Green,” will showcase Cebu industry players’ commitment to environment and make Cebu the pioneering City to adopt an aggressive pledge in “green” lifestyle.

 CCCI president Samuel Chioson admitted that the post election month of June, may entail jitters of nationwide participation of businessmen, as well expected foreign delegates, however, the theme unique theme emphasizing the social corporation responsibility (CSR) will provide an interesting topic that will attract business people to come.

Besides, Chioson said the Visayas Business Area Conference (VBAC) that will be held in Cebu during the CBM celebration will also heighten participation from business players around the country.

From the usual campaign of forging growth and development in the three industries considered as economic drivers in Cebu, the tourism, Information Communication Technology and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), this time CBM 2010 will tackle a noble cause, putting Cebu at the forefront of the environmental crusade.

The tourism committee led by businesswoman, Ma. Theresa Chan will pursue “Green Tourism” activities, accentuating the eco-tourism wealth of Cebu, and the players’ best practices in adopting “green” operations in their respective establishments.

According to Chan, Cebu should leverage in the eco-Tourism resources saying “this is where we can compete.”

In ICT, committee chairman Jerry Rapes also underscored the strong commitment of Cebu’s ICT sector to adopt environment-friendly operations.

Also, the exciting ICT sector in Cebu will also be re-enforced in the participation of national ICT organizations, such as the Animation Council of the Philippines, Philippine Software Development Association, and national industry association of Medical Transcription, Contact Center Association of the Philippines, among others.

The Entrepreneurship component of CBM will also be showcasing Cebuano SMEs that are in the forefront of practicing “green operation.”

Chaired by Edwin Ortiz, the “GreenTrepreneurship Conference” will highlight the entrepreneurship Green Trails of Success.

“We will be showcasing green initiative products, services and technologies that will be participated in by various sectors from both local and international stakeholders, government and other organizations,” Taguiam said.

CBM, an institutionalized festival of businesses, promotes Cebu’s trade and industry as well as boosts the development of Cebu’s economy through business matching and friendly competition among participants and guests.