As the premier and biggest annual business gathering in the Visayas, the VABC brings together key stakeholders from the government, local government units (LGUs), private sector, and the academe across Regions 6, 7, and 8. This year’s conference serves as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, all in pursuit of inclusive and future-ready regional growth.
The conference was officially called to order by 34th VABC Chairperson and PCCI Visayas Area Vice President Melanie C. Ng, who emphasized the importance of sustained regional collaboration and forward-thinking business solutions.
VABC Co-Chairperson and PCCI Regional Governor for Eastern Visayas Twinkle Uy-Chu, along with Conference Host and PCCI Tacloban-Leyte Inc. President Eugene Tan, warmly welcomed the delegates, highlighting Eastern Visayas' readiness to take a central role in driving economic transformation through strategic partnerships and local initiatives.
Hon. Remedios “Matin” Petilla, Mayor of Palo, Leyte, also graced the opening ceremony and spoke about the vast potential of Leyte and the Eastern Visayas in areas such as agri-business, tourism, and renewable energy — industries that offer unique opportunities for investment and innovation.
Meanwhile, PCCI President Consul Enunina V. Mangio reaffirmed PCCI’s strong commitment to enabling a future-ready Visayas. She emphasized the vital role that local chambers play as catalysts for inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainable development at the grassroots level—championing MSMEs and driving strategic advocacy work across the islands.
The opening ceremonies also featured Hon. Jude A. Acidre, Representative of Tingog Partylist as one of the guest speakers. In his speech, he underscored the need to unlock regional growth through strong public-private partnerships, and called for policy reforms that empower local industries, MSMEs, and inclusive economic development.
Also lending his support to the conference was Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV, who delivered a video message centered on the theme "Visayas Rising: Transforming Vision into Business Impact for a Future-Ready Region." He urged participants to embrace innovation, invest in digitalization and education, and ensure no one is left behind.
Stay tuned as the 34th VABC continues to explore high-impact resolutions, business matching opportunities, and strategic collaborations to propel the Visayas forward!
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The 34th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC) has officially kicked off!