The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has tapped Arturo “Butch” Guerrero to lead next year’s Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), setting the stage for a major business gathering expected to shape policy recommendations for the government.

The 52nd PBC&E will be held on 13 to 14 October at The Manila Hotel, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, international partners, and micro, small, and medium enterprises under the theme “Raising the Bar: Empowering Business for a Resilient Future.”

Unanimous appointment

Guerrero’s appointment was made unanimously by the PCCI leadership, reflecting confidence in his experience in organizing large-scale industry events. He previously served as vice chair of the 51st PBC&E and led the National Conference of Employers in 2023.

“With his experience and expertise in organizing events, we trust that this year’s conference will be equally substantive, meaningful, and successful as the previous PBCs,” PCCI president Perry A. Ferrer said.

Guerrero said the timing of the conference is significant, as it will coincide with other major regional and international business engagements hosted in Manila.

Three major business summits

“Three major business summits will happen towards the end of the year. We will align our efforts and PBC agenda with that of the two other events — after all, we share a common goal of creating a dynamic and prosperous regional economy,” Guerrero said.

A veteran in labor and employment policy, Guerrero brings over three decades of experience in workforce development, social dialogue, and corporate governance. He currently leads Temps and Staffers Inc. and has been active in shaping labor-related reforms through tripartite cooperation.

The annual PBC&E serves as the country’s largest business forum, traditionally opening with a keynote address from the Vice President and concluding with policy recommendations submitted to the President, reflecting the concerns and proposals of industry stakeholders nationwide.