PCCI eyes roadmap innovation

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s largest business organization is looking to provide a roadmap focused on innovation during the upcoming Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) to help enterprises sustain operations amid the pandemic.

In a statement yesterday, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has highlighted the need for businesses to innovate.

As such, this year’s PBC&E organized by the PCCI and slated on Oct. 7 to 8 would have innovation as its theme.

Through the event, the PCCI seeks to provide a roadmap for businesses to help them navigate unchartered territories and move toward a sustainable future.

PCCI president Benedicto Yujuico said it is necessary for businesses to have innovation as a core strategy to ensure they can sustain operations and withstand challenges brought about by the crisis.

“When I assumed the position as president of PCCI, I have placed innovation as the core of my agenda and work program. This has proven to be relevant and timely with everything that is happening now,” he said.

“I am happy that our members are really trying to stay in business and showing their fighting spirit to help our economy recover and move forward,” he added.

Held annually, the PBC&E is the platform for business leaders to meet with government leaders, diplomats, academe, and micro, small and medium enterprises to discuss issues and come up with policy recommendations to help improve the business environment.

Among the speakers for this year’s PBC&E are former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Vice President

Leni Robredo, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato dela Peña.

Speakers from the private sector include Filinvest Development Corp. president and CEO Josephine Gotianun-Yap, Kickstart Ventures president Minette Navarrete, JG Digital Equity Ventures CEO Jojo Malolos, Fintech Alliance chairman Lito Villanueva, Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro,  Enactus president and CEO Rachel Jarosh and Servio Small Business co-founder Joey Gurango.

This year’s conference will be livestreamed on PCCI’s official Facebook page @pcciofficial.