CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry has partnered with Germany’s AFOS Foundation for Entrepreneurial Development Cooperation to help its partner business membership organizations improve in terms of business network.
CCCI said small chambers need capacity-building and skills development programs.
Developing the local chambers of commerce is essential in ensuring strong business networks of entrepreneurs in the community.
The presence of local chambers in the society has driven business activity as they work with enterprises of all sizes and represent various industries.
CCCI partnered with AFOS for the WE CAN project that aims to help BMOs in the Visayas and Caraga regions.
In a press conference Wednesday, May Ybañez, CCCI executive director, said training the BMO partners can contribute to the advancement of the micro, small and medium enterprises in their localities.
CCCI, which serves as the big sibling, teaches these groups on membership development, enterprise growth, advocacy and internal management.
Insights
John Jalandoni, executive director of Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the project has improved the chamber's relationship with the local government and government agencies.
Ina Gaston, ED of Association of Negros Producers, said their group's involvement in the project has improved the potential growth of supply chain of local producers in Negros. They include makers of gifts, housewares, furniture, garments and organic farm products.
In addition, Lawyer Nolito Quilang, president of Ormoc Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted the local government has now become sensitive in involving the business sector in policy making and agenda planning.
Quilang said the business sector must ensure that its views are heard by the government.
Meanwhile, Teresa Pono of AFOS mentioned the association of BMOs would allow them to gain business opportunities in both local and national markets.
These organizations are backed in promoting their industries through training, help from technical experts, marketing support and networking.
The project, which started in 2009, is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development. — Carlo S. Lorenciana (FREEMAN)