The Manila Hotel, City of Manila
October 17, 2019

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte served as the guest of honor and keynote speaker in the 45th Philippine Business Conference and Expo held at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel in the City of Manila.

The President handed over the various awards and received the 45th Philippine Business Conference Resolutions during the program proper before addressing the occasion.

In his message, the Chief Executive recognized the awardees for their invaluable contributions to the country’s businesses and socio-economic development, particularly in promoting ways to develop and sustain the growth of domestic products by the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“The government is a part – on its part is working hard in bridging the digital divide by establishing the necessary infrastructure that will give our people access to better information technology services and by implementing programs that will enhance the skills of the labor force to cater [to] the digital economy,” President Duterte said.

He also emphasized the importance of the conference and expo in crafting measures for greater competitiveness and efficiency, stressing that the business community’s “recommendations are now being reviewed and implemented”. Some of these include the streamlining and simplification of government processes, active conduct of peace efforts to address local insurgencies, and initiatives that bring about sustainable development.

Likewise, the President reminded the business community to do its part in taking care of the environment, reiterating that this is their duty as citizens of the country.

“The environment is a priority under my administration. Businesses should not only comply with all environmental rules and regulations. You can contribute by helping us build more disposal sites for our waste and treatment facilities,” President Duterte stressed.

The event carried the theme, ‘Enabling Business in a Digital Economy.’ Apart from the conference, an exhibit of 76 booths from the corporate members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) were showcased at the Fiesta Pavilion foyer.

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