SCMAP held the first ever Supply Chain Perspective – a half day forum gathering supply chain experts and local leaders in cities across the country – at the Days Hotel in Iloilo City last 13 May.
The event was attended by over 120 participants. Apart from delegates who came from Manila as part of that weekend’s Supply Chain Immersion (more information here), there were also delegates from businesses in Iloilo, as well as Cebu and Bacolod. The event tackled developments and challenges in supply chain, with a particular focus on Iloilo, which has seen a boost in growth in recent years, backed by increased investment from the public and private sectors.
Kicking off the event was REID Foundation vice president Ronilo Balbieran, a familiar face to SCMAP events, who once again presented a look at the country’s economic prospects. He noted the success of the Western Visayas region in recent years, noting that Iloilo in particular is leading the way as other regional economies in the country grow after years of focus on Metro Manila.
Iloilo city mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog followed with a look at his government’s plans for the city in the years ahead, enhancing its competitiveness through social programs and new projects expanding its infrastructure and fostering urban renewal.
Philippine Foremost Milling Corporation’s vice president for trade mills, Engr. Terence Uygongco, then took a look at his company’s logistics opportunities and challenges, particularly as a major business in the region. As PFMC continues expanding across the country, he notes the challenge of limited infrastructure in the city – particularly in relation to accommodating foreign vessels – as well as in hiring and training logistics personnel especially as the region’s economy booms.
Finally, Rustan Supercenters vice president for supply chain, Christine Pardiñas, took a look at how the changing face of retail is affecting not just consumer choices but also supply chains, particularly in an archipelagic country like the Philippines.
Also speaking at the event was Iloilo Business Club executive director Maria Lea Lara and SCMAP president Nestor Felicio.
The event was unique as it also gathered all two of SCMAP’s active chapters, alongside the national organization. Mae Masnayon, secretary of SCMAP Visayas, represented her chapter, while Linda Pamintuan, secretary of the newly-founded SCMAP North Luzon, also took part. This highlights the organization’s unique reach as it moves the global competitiveness of the Philippine supply chain industry.
This year’s event was sponsored by Manila North Harbour Port Inc. and supported by the 2GO Group. We would also like to thank the Iloilo Business Club for their invaluable assistance.
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