Trade, tech, tourism, growth pivots — execs

Trade, tech, tourism, growth pivots — execs | Daily Tribune

The convergence of trade, technology and tourism is seen as key in achieving sustainable economic development while serving as a major driver for the growth of the local economy.

On Wednesday, government officials and business leaders gathered in the Manila Hotel for this year’s Metro Manila Business Conference (MMBC) with the theme “Integrating Trade, Technology, and Tourism for Sustainable Economic Transformation,” or 3Ts for SET, with “Local Integration, Global Outlook” as a subtheme.

Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president Consul Enunina Mangio said the correlation of the three domains is essential as they encapsulate the current challenge of integrating local efforts with a global perspective while staying true to achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

Competitive economy

As per Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr., PCCI honorary chair and treasurer, trade, technology and tourism integration creates a competitive economy which leads to a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future.

“At the heart of this transformation is the empowerment of businesses through science and technology. Today, more than ever, science and technology play a crucial role in driving business innovation, enhancing productivity, and enabling companies to scale new heights,” he said.

“By harnessing the power of technology, businesses cannot only improve their operations but also create new products, services, and markets that address the evolving needs of consumers and communities,” he added.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, meanwhile, said private sector-led initiatives such as MMBC are important as they underscore tourism and its relationship with trade and investments and serves as a platform for discussing the need of developing technology and innovation.

“Because we know that tourism pervades our communities and all parts of our country where opportunities thrive. That is why this event is very important because we can hear our stakeholders who form part and parcel of the tourism economy,” she said.

Among the PCCI officials that graced the event were PCCI-NCR Chairman Dr. Hernando Delizo, PCCI NCR South Sector Regional Governor and 2024 MMBC Conference Director Emelita Alvarez, and PCCI Chairman George Barcelon.