CEBU CITY— The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) hosted an Investment Forum 2025, that showcases Cebu’s investment opportunities on July 9 at NUSTAR Resort with over 400 participants composed of key government officials, industry leaders, and business executives.
“Active partnerships across the private sector, government, and civic organizations are vital for a sustainable ecosystem. The chamber aims to develop a culture of innovation and creativity to boost global benefits,” CCCI president Jay Yuvallos said in his opening statement at the forum .
Yuvallos emphasized the importance of collaboration between businesses and educational institutions to equip the next generation with necessary skills. The chamber is committed to aligning with the government and private sector to support Cebu's development, Yuvallos added that the business community in Cebu is focused on laying the groundwork for alignment and alliances rather than complaining.
Sabin Aboitiz, CEO of Aboitiz Equity Ventures and one of the Philippines' most respected business leaders delivered the keynote address with his presentation focusing on Cebu's strategic role in national economic development and key insights from the Private Sector Advisory Council, and the Aboitiz Group's significant long-term investments in Cebu's growth trajectory.
Aboitiz said, Cebu's integral role in the Aboitiz group identity, noting that discussions about Cebu's progress cannot be complete without acknowledging its contributions. The Aboitiz group, he said has evolved from trading abaca to various sectors, including transportation, power plants, shipping, banking, and residential communities.
Aboitiz asserted that their investments in Cebu have not only focused on infrastructure but also on the potential of the region. He detailed the substantial capital deployed into Cebu, driving development and supporting regional growth.
The expansion of their footprint is illustrated through various developments, including coastal, mountain, and urban projects catering to different income segments and lifestyles. Examples of their developments include the Foresa Seaside, Foresa Mountain, and Pristina North, which aim to create safe, connected, and proud communities.
“These projects are not just for selling lots but for building comprehensive communities with all necessary support capabilities,” Aboitiz said, elaborating on the fully-equipped business parks, Cebu economic zones, and IT parks designed to facilitate ease of operation for companies of any size.
He mentioned the importance of these developments in making Cebu an attractive destination for businesses from around the world. The focus, according to him is on creating environments that support economic growth and community development and Aboitiz concluded by highlighting the group's commitment to investing in Cebu's potential and future.
Frederick Go, Secretary-Office of the Special Assistant for Investment and Economic Affairs on the other hand, emphasized the administration's commitment to creating a conducive environment for business and investment, focusing on ease of doing business, reducing costs, and restoring predictability.
Sec. Go said, the priority sectors for investments include semiconductors and electronics, mineral extraction and processing, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, agriculture, steel, energy (particularly renewable), infrastructure, and tourism.
"The Philippines is open to investments in any sector, but the focus is on the eight mentioned sectors for businesses to invest in the Philippines with the liberal, dynamic, and forward-looking investment policy environment under President Marcos," Go stated.
The goal is to build an investment-led economy that brings in long-term capital, creates jobs, and improves the lives of all Filipinos. He encourages businesses and businessmen/women to take advantage of the game-changing reforms put in place by the administration, that aims to build a brighter future for all through these reforms.
Go expressed confidence and faith in the investment environment, similar to the confidence he felt in Cebu when he was in the private sector. (Photos: MBCNewman)
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