Cebu Chamber calls for sustained teamwork and shared effort to strengthen Cebu’s economy

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) President Jay Yuvallos urged businesses, institutions, and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and collective efforts to secure Cebu’s position in the global economic arena.

Speaking during the CCCI general membership meeting, Yuvallos emphasized that while the Chamber continues to chart bold initiatives, it is shared commitment and unity of purpose that will ultimately drive meaningful and lasting change.

“We cannot do this alone,” Yuvallos said. “We need each one of you in this advocacy. Together, we can build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive Cebu.”

At the heart of Yuvallos’s message was a renewed emphasis on collaboration as a catalyst for economic and social transformation. Through high-level engagements with international diplomats, trade missions to Japan, partnerships with educational institutions, and grassroots capacity-building programs, the Chamber has created multiple entry points for businesses to plug into broader development efforts.

Recent initiatives—such as the dual education training program for the future workforce, as well as the packaging, labeling workshops for fisherfolk, and digitalization training for microentrepreneurs—underscore the Chamber’s belief that growth must be inclusive and shared.

Collective Action Across Five Pillars

Guided by its LEAD A-MUST agenda, the Chamber has organized its efforts into five key pillars— Academe-Industry Alliance (A); MICE Development (M); Utilities Alliance (U); Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship (S); and Trade and Logistics (T)

“Power is non-negotiable,” Yuvallos asserted. “Reliable utilities are the lifeblood of a thriving business environment.”

CCCI is working with local and international experts to help Cebu transition toward zero plastic waste and greater sustainability across industries. Through collaborative planning, the Chamber also seeks to transform Cebu into a premier logistics hub in the Asia-Pacific.

As the Chamber prepares to launch Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2025, Yuvallos extended an open invitation to members and partners to get involved, participate actively, and take ownership of Cebu’s future.

“Let us not be content with business as usual. Let us come together—private sector, government, academe, civil society—and make Cebu a model of innovation, resilience, and shared prosperity,” Yuvallos urged.

He noted that CCCI’s work is not just about policy or programs—it is about people coming together with purpose.

“As we reflect on our achievements, we recognize that none of this would be possible without each of you. Together, let us forge new paths, build stronger partnerships, and create enduring value for Cebu and its people.”

Moreover, the 2nd GMM highlighted Cebu City Mayor-Elect Nestor Archival Jr. as he formally presented the 21 officers & trustees into office while Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Regional Governor Engr. Albert Uy inducted the 22-member companies as new additions to the CCCI growing family.