All is set for the year’s biggest gathering of business owners, policymakers, and thought leaders in the country. In line with its annual tradition, the 46th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) will facilitate an exchange of ideas on pressing issues, present potential opportunities in the local business community, and propose some policies to the government (following national and regional consultations).
During a press briefing held on September 24, the conference organizer—the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)—unveiled the unique theme of this year’s PBC&E, which is ‘Innovation@PH.’ The event aims to establish a roadmap for businesses to effectively navigate uncharted territories and chart a sustainable and secure future for the country.
The group identified several specific issues that will be tackled in the summit, which include improvement of internet connectivity, automation and digitalization of government processes (to help lower physical contacts during the new normal), and provision of access to research and technology to the agriculture sector.
Private sector’s role
PCCI President Benedicto Yujuico hopes the discussions with policymakers will also touch on the private sector’s crucial role in technology investments, improvement of incentive policies for businesses, addressing of red tape, and bolstering of internet services across the country—all aimed to allow innovation to thrive.
“We aim to be able to impact innovative solutions to businesses especially on how they can navigate their ecosystems in the new normal,” said PBC&E Chair Eunina Mangio. The businesswoman added that they will push for longer-term fiscal and non-fiscal incentives “to ensure the survival and recovery of businesses to continue providing employment.”
Interesting lineup of speakers
PBC&E has an interesting lineup of speakers during the event—which for the first time will be held virtually in consideration of Covid-19 safety protocols. Vice President Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo is spearheading the list of resource persons from the public sector, with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato de la Peña, and Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
The 46th PBC&E will be held on October 7 and 8, 2020 (starts at 8 a.m. on both days). To participate in this event, register here for free.