A 45-member delegation from Cebu, including business leaders and government officials, has arrived in Tokyo for a high-level trade and learning mission focused on disaster resilience, healthcare innovation, and sustainable urban development. Organized by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the mission will take place from February 25 to 27, 2026.
This mission underscores Cebu’s commitment to addressing critical development challenges and exploring innovative solutions. The delegation includes prominent leaders from the private sector, as well as key representatives from the City of Cebu, the Province of Cebu, and Lapu-Lapu City. Leading the delegation is CCCI President Jay Y. Yuvallos, who also serves as Chairman of the East Asia Business Council, alongside Cebu Governor Hon. Pamela Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor Hon. Nestor Archival. This collaboration underscores the strong partnership between government and business leaders in advancing Cebu’s growth and resilience
In response to recent natural disasters, such as the devastating floods, which have exposed vulnerabilities in Cebu’s disaster preparedness, healthcare infrastructure, and urban planning, the mission aims to learn from Japan’s global leadership in disaster mitigation, healthcare advancements, and smart urban development. The delegation seeks to gather best practices and solutions that can help shape Cebu’s future strategies.
Key Highlights of the Mission Include:
1. Healthcare Innovation at Care Show Japan 2026: Delegates will explore cutting-edge advancements in elderly care, medical technologies, and digital health solutions at Asia’s leading healthcare exhibition.
2. Strengthening Chamber-to-Chamber Collaboration: A key focus of the mission is fostering stronger ties between the Cebu Chamber and its Japanese counterparts. Delegates will engage with the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other regional chambers to discuss business opportunities, deepen bilateral trade relations, and explore strategic partnerships. This collaboration is aligned with the East Asia Connect Program, which aims to bridge opportunities for local businesses to expand and network across East Asia.
3. Urban Development Insights with NTT Urban Development: The group will learn about Japan’s innovative urban planning strategies, including transit-oriented development, mixed-use spaces, and resilient infrastructure.
4. Flood Management at the G-Cans Flood Control Facility: Participants will visit the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel (G-Cans), the world’s largest underground floodwater diversion system, to study Japan’s advanced flood control techniques and disaster risk reduction strategies.
5. Promoting Sustainable Business Practices: The delegation will engage in discussions on sustainable business models, particularly in the context of integrating environmental sustainability into urban planning, disaster response systems, and healthcare. These sessions will explore practical solutions that can be implemented in Cebu to support long-term sustainable development.
Through this mission, CCCI and its partners aim to bring home practical, actionable solutions to enhance Cebu’s infrastructure, improve disaster response systems, and foster sustainable urban development. By leveraging Japan’s proven expertise and strengthening international ties, the delegation intends to integrate new technologies and approaches that will benefit Cebu’s businesses, government, and communities alike.
This mission highlights CCCI’s continued commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and innovation in Cebu- ensuring the region is well-equipped for future challenges while continuing to enhance its global competitiveness.
