This year’s Supply Chain Outlook focused on the important role supply chain plays in ensuring quality of life, as it put the spotlight on efforts to ensure food security for all Filipinos.
The event, held last 8 February at the Palawan Ballroom of the EDSA Shangri-la Manila in Mandaluyong City, also served as the induction of the organization’s Board of Directors for 2019.
Fortunato dela Peña, secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, was the event’s keynote speaker, presenting perspectives on how innovations in multiple fronts – from farms to distribution networks – can help not just maintain food security, but also uplift various segments of society. He also led the induction of SCMAP’s new board, led by Christine Pardiñas of Rustan Supercenters Inc.
Anthony Dizon, president of the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines, later presented the view from the cold chain sector, the role it plays in food security, and opportunities in the sector with the advent of renewed economic confidence and new technologies.
Ronilo Balbieran, vice president for business development of the REID Foundation, returned to the event to present his economic outlook for the year.
For her part, Pardiñas, the first from the retailing sector to assume the top post at SCMAP, presented the organization’s plans for 2019, its 30th year. These thrusts include strengthened presence in the regions through chapters in Cebu, Clark and Davao, as well as a push towards supply chain education, with the target unveiling of a collaboration with the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.
The event was attended by about 100 delegates from the SCMAP membership, as well as former presidents and friends of the organization.