Technology and innovation next level for biz productivity, efficiency

 
CEBU CITY – Technology and innovation, especially on the adaptation and focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business systems and operations seem to be the next level to achieve the highest efficiency and productivity in the ever-changing landscape in business today.

This insight summed up the various discussion topics at the “Technology and Innovation Forum” hosted by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce (CCCI) on June 20, at the Marcopolo Plaza Hotel, Cebu City as part of the Cebu Business Months (CBM) 2025 activities from June to August, this year with “Padayon Cebu” as a continuing tagline since 2024.

“The Technology and Innovation Forum focuses on Artificial Intelligence (AI). We aim to catalyze digital transformation and collaborative innovation by bringing together a diverse mix of industry experts, tech leaders, innovators, and enabler to explore cutting-edge AI technologies, co-develop solutions, and tackle real-world challenges through a full day of learning and problem-solving centered on AI's transformative power,” CCCI president, Jay Yuvallos said in his opening message.

Yuvallos said, CCCI must lead, true to its LEAD A MUST Agenda, an acronym representing the Chamber’s leadership goals, including lifting up business and investments in Cebu. The event is framed as a movement to shape the future of Cebu and position it as a leader in ASEAN's technology and innovation.

AI adoption is already creeping in Southeast Asia creating huge potential impact on the economy and society.  It is now a must for the Philippines and other Asian countries to embrace AI to boost GDP by 18% and transform lives of 700 million people in ASEAN, Yuvallos added.

Anton Mari Perdices, CBM 2025 Overall Chair emphasized the importance of adapting to technological advancements, particularly AI, in the business sector.  There is that need for active participation in the technological revolution and to engage proactively rather than passively.

“It is important to adapt to technological advancements, particularly AI, reflecting the era of rapid technological change and its impact on business and the potential of AI in transforming decision-making processes and creating new digital markets. However, be reminded of the crucial element of being humans in business, cautioning against a complete takeover by AI,” Perdices said.

Brian Yap, CBM 2025 Digital Transformation Chair, bared that Cebu has a potential to become Southeast Asia's most dynamic technology ecosystem, but only if the business sector acts collectively, strategically and individually. Cebu has the talent, the infrastructures, the cultural advantage, the entrepreneurial spirit. What it needs is coordination, knowledge, sharing and collaborative actions.

“We are excited about the potential for Cebu to become Southeast Asia's most dynamic technology ecosystem. We believe that collective, strategic, and individual actions are necessary to achieve this potential,” Yap said.

Yap viewed the Technology and Innovation Forum as a pivotal moment for initiating this coordinated effort towards a dynamic technology ecosystem that will shape the region's economic future—the next level for business productivity and efficiency. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Design, a catalyst for innovation, inclusive and sustainable devt

CEBU CITY – “Good Design, Good Business Summit” 2025 hosted by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) on June 5 at Oakridge Studio, championed design as catalyst and a powerful tool for innovation, sustainability and inclusive community development.

The Summit is one of the flagship events of the Cebu Business Months (CBM) 2025 where CCCI gathers industry leaders, design experts, and community stakeholders with a unifying message—that design is not a luxury, but a necessity for competitive and resilient growth.

“Design is no longer optional, it is essential for Cebu to compete, create, and thrive.  It is a movement that redefines design beyond aesthetics and into the real of strategic innovation.  Good design is good business because it improves lives,” CCCI president, Jay Yuvallos described the Summit, citing its relevance in housing, real estate, and urban development.

Yuvallos called on designers to step up as leaders and problem solvers, not just creatives. Design, he said, must be integrated into every sector—from manufacturing and tourism to urban planning and digital platforms.

CBM Chairman Anton Mari Perdices echoed this sentiment, stating that design is infrastructure. It should be part of how we plan, build, and grow.  He described the Summit as a platform for driving forward-thinking collaboration among businesses and creatives.

“As Cebu grows, we must grow intentionally. Design must guide how we build safer, more sustainable, and inclusive communities. Your presence here shows your commitment to move forward through innovation, design, and good business,” Perdices said.

He explained that this year’s Summit goes deeper by focusing on the spaces we all share—homes, workplaces, and communities.  “Design shapes how we live, how cities grow, and how businesses succeed,” he added.

 Perdices described good design as a strategic investment that strengthens supply chains, supports sustainability, and helps build resilient, livable spaces. 

Summit speakers’ insights

The morning session featured three speakers: Edward Charles Gador from Leechiu Property Consultants, Donn Tan from M. Moser Associates, and COO of Cebu Landmasters, Inc, Honorary Consul Jose Franco Soberano.

Edward Charles Gador, Director at Leechiu Property Consultants, presented an optimistic update on the Philippine real estate landscape. Despite the continued absence of POGO operations and subdued government activity, the office market saw growth during the first quarter of 2025, with the IT-BPM sector accounting for 55% of total demand. Gador also noted a promising outlook for the residential segment, forecasting recovery within the year.

Donn Tan of M. Moser Associates delved into Strategic Design for an Evolving Corporate Landscape. He emphasized that inclusive design is no longer optional, outlining key elements such as flexibility, adaptability, hospitality, privacy, branded experiential design, sustainability, well-being, community, technology, and inclusivity. All of which are central to creating engaging, future-ready workspaces.

“Good design is responsible design. Responsible design is good business.  It is a game-changing force in real estate development and plays a pivotal role in crafting spaces that go beyond functionality, creating environments that truly resonate with users and uplift communities,” Consul Jose Franco Soberano of Cebu Landmaster, Inc. (CLI) shared.

The afternoon session featured six speakers: Dennis Miranda from Advent Energy, Manuel Louie Ferrer from Megawide, Natasha Paola Sandique, a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, Yvette Grace Mangente from Cubo Modular, Allen Arvin Tan from Atua Midtown, and Varudh Varavarn from Vin Varavarn Architects Ltd.

Miranda spotlighted the vital role of energy efficiency in vertical developments. He emphasized the integration of conservation strategies, advanced energy solutions, and renewable sources, particularly solar energy, to boost long-term operational performance.

Manuel Louie Ferrer on the other hand, shared his insights on the Carbon Market redevelopment, positioning it as a national model for sustainable urban renewal.  The project, he said, reflects an ecosystem that balances waste reduction, poverty alleviation, and collaborative governance.

Natasha Paola Sandique, clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, explored the Psychology of Space, showing how the thoughtful application of psychological principles can foster mental well-being, comfort, and productivity in physical environments.

Yvette Grace Mangente presented prefabrication as a forward-looking solution for developers and property owners. She underscored its potential in delivering affordable, scalable, and sustainable housing options across communities.

Allen Arvin Tan recounted the transformation of the Midtown Hotel into an imaginative space tailored for creatives. Demonstrating how adaptive reuse and design storytelling can reawaken underutilized properties.

Varudh Varavarn delivered a compelling talk on Architecture of Opportunity, emphasizing how architecture can spark innovation, inclusivity, and community growth, especially in underserved or disaster-affected areas.

For more information, you may contact the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. at 232-1421 or check us on FB and Website, or email us at:cbm@cebuchamber.org/info@cebuchamber.org.(Photos: MBCNewman)