The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) successfully hosted the Cebu Business Investment Forum at NUSTAR Resort and Casino, marking a pivotal moment in positioning Cebu as a premier destination for future-forward investments. The flagship event of Cebu Business Month, themed “Padayon Cebu! Invest in Cebu, Prosper in Paradise,” brought together an impressive gathering of top executives, government leaders, and key stakeholders to explore Cebu’s strategic advantages and investment opportunities.
The forum attracted high-profile participation from Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and George Barcelon, Chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), alongside a distinguished lineup of national and regional leaders representing both public and private sectors.
CCCI President Jay Yuvallos opened the forum by emphasizing the Chamber’s pivotal role in driving Cebu’s economic growth and enhancing global competitiveness. Referencing the organization’s LEAD A-MUST Agenda, Yuvallos called for purposeful action from the business community.
“We must channel our energies and invest wisely because it is rewarding to love Cebu,” Yuvallos stated, establishing the collaborative spirit that defined the day’s proceedings.
Keynote speaker Sabin Aboitiz, President and CEO of the Aboitiz Group of Companies, delivered a compelling presentation on Cebu’s critical role in national development. Drawing from his family’s entrepreneurial legacy, Aboitiz showcased their transformative Balamban-based partnership with Tsuneishi, which converted a quiet town into a thriving shipbuilding hub.
“We’re transforming not just economies, but entire communities,” Aboitiz explained. “The reality is that investments like this only succeed when government and business sectors work together effectively.”
Aboitiz emphasized Cebu’s multifaceted importance as a trading center, cultural anchor, and innovation launchpad, while highlighting regional developments including airport privatization, electronic visa implementation, tourist refund programs, and enhanced connectivity across Visayas and Mindanao.
Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo, Undersecretary and Managing Head of the Board of Investments, outlined the Philippines’ pathway to achieving sustainable, long-term transformation through strategic government-private sector collaboration. He identified priority investment sectors that align with national strengths:
Key Investment Sectors:
- Electric vehicles and green metals
- Smart manufacturing, semiconductors, and electronics
- Food and agriculture
- Tourism and renewable energy
- Data infrastructure
Rodolfo specifically highlighted Cebu’s exceptional positioning in data centers, export manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure development, citing the region’s young skilled workforce, abundant natural resources, and strategic geographic location.
Mariane Genelou Reyes, Officer-in-Charge of the Investment Policy and Planning Service, presented the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) for 2025-2027, emphasizing Cebu’s central role in upcoming national developments.
Secretary Frederick D. Go of the Office of the Special Assistant for Investment and Economic Affairs presented robust economic data demonstrating the Philippines’ investment readiness:
Economic Performance Highlights:
- Sustained GDP growth
- Reduced inflation rates
- 96.1% employment rate achievement
- Philippines’ A- credit rating
- Expected transition to upper-middle-income economy status in 2025
Go outlined significant economic reforms, including the CREATE MORE Act, green strategic investments, capital market improvements, and the elimination of minimum brokers’ commission fees. He highlighted successful public-private partnerships, citing the privatization of Manila International Airport, Bohol-Panglao Airport, and Laguindingan Airport, alongside 212 flagship infrastructure projects under the Build Better More program.
The forum featured two strategic panel discussions examining critical development areas:
“Infrastructure Investments Driving Progress: Is Cebu Ready?” Moderated by Gretchen Choa, Vice President of Camden Trading Group, the panel included Rafaelito A. Barino (Chairman, Duros Group), Cosette Canilao (President and CEO, Aboitiz Infracapital), and Arlo Angelo G. Sarmiento (CEO, Vivant Corporation). Discussions focused on the infrastructure’s role in supporting progress, identifying gaps in transportation and water systems, and emphasizing that inclusive growth requires inclusive infrastructure. The panel highlighted public-private partnerships as key solutions for ensuring accessibility and efficiency.
“Are Real Estate Developments in Cebu Sufficient for Future Requirements?” Moderated by Darwin John Moises (CEO, XP Plus Solutions Inc.), the panel featured Department of Tourism Region 7 Director Judy Gabato, Ayala Land Vice President Jennylle S. Tupaz, Kuok, and Shangri-La Group Philippines Corporate Secretary Atty. Federico G. Noel Jr., and Hotel 101 Global Head of Sales and Distribution, Janice Original.
Gabato reported impressive tourism recovery, with Central Visayas welcoming over 1.5 million arrivals in Q1 2025. Panelists emphasized the need for comprehensive tourist experiences, improved accommodation facilities, proper DOT accreditation, and stronger IT-BPM sector development. All agreed that current market conditions present optimal investment opportunities.
The forum featured specialized presentations demonstrating cutting-edge developments:
Smart Township Development: Gwen B. Sala of City di Mare presented comprehensive development plans including CDM bus services, pedestrian bridgeways, prime commercial lots, and recreational spaces. City di Mare distinguished itself as one of Cebu’s first townships, integrating smart features like wireless charging benches, emphasizing human-centric and accessible design.
Financial Services Growth: John David Yap of Security Bank outlined tailored financial solutions supporting business growth, efficiency, innovation, and protection.
Cross-Border Payment Innovation: Steven Dooley of Convera addressed opportunities and risks in international transactions, encouraging businesses to evaluate providers based on service levels, automation, and reporting capabilities while considering geopolitical risks and trade barriers.
The government outlined upcoming legislation designed to enhance the investment environment:
- Right of Way Bill
- Investors’ Lease Act (extending leases to 99 years)
- Mining Fiscal Regime Bill
- Luzon Economic Corridor initiative
These initiatives, combined with ongoing digitization efforts including the National ID system, position the Philippines for continued economic growth.
The forum concluded with a synthesis by Melanie Ng, Visayas Representative to the National MSME Development Council, past CCCI President, and Area Vice President for the Visayas of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She emphasized collective effort in driving progress and called for continued stakeholder investment in Cebu’s future.
The event concluded with renewed commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Cebu, embodying the forum’s theme: “Padayon, Cebu! Invest in Cebu, Prosper in Paradise.”
For more information, you may call the chamber at 2321421 to 24 or email us at info@cebuchamber.org, or check our website and FB page.
