The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Advisory Council (ABAC) II meeting held in Brunei last April has set the stage for a highly anticipated ABAC III, to be hosted in Cebu, Philippines in July.
The four-day meeting in Brunei, which began on April 27, was attended by delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region, who discussed various issues related to economic growth, trade, and investment in the region. On the final day of the meeting, ABAC Brunei turned over the hosting duties to ABAC Philippines.
Following the theme “Equity, Sustainability, and Opportunity,” ABAC Philippines aims to encourage more fruitful discussions and collaborations between business leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the region. This year’s theme puts a spotlight on the critical role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the global economy, as well as the evolving environment, social, and governance (ESG) investing landscape.
The Philippines, known for its vibrant culture and resilient economy, offers a perfect backdrop for this important gathering. An archipelago of thousands of interconnected islands, the nation embodies the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that underpins the APEC economies. Like the islands that work together to create a cohesive whole, the APEC economies are interconnected and interdependent, each contributing to the larger ecosystem. Working together, APEC economies can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead, working towards a shared vision of sustainable and inclusive growth for all.
“As we prepare to host ABAC in the vibrant heart of Cebu, we stand on the cusp of boundless opportunities and exciting discoveries. Let’s write a new chapter in the Asia-Pacific story, where collaboration sparks innovation, and our shared vision for a prosperous future becomes a reality.”, Aboitiz Group President and Chief Executive Officer Sabin M. Aboitiz said.
As the Vice-Chair of the 2023 ABAC Sustainable Growth Working Group (SGWG), Aboitiz plays a crucial role in advancing ABAC’s efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the region. He is joined by ABAC Philippines member Joanne de Asis, who is also the country lead for the Financial Task Force, as well as ABAC Philippines Chair Tomas Alcantara.
“We are honored to host this important gathering of business leaders from across the Asia-Pacific. We look forward to providing a positive experience here in the Philippines as the Council continues the great work and progress it has achieved in the past two meetings,” shared Tomas Alcantara.
Joanne de Asis added, “As ABAC members, we are committed to promoting sustainable and equitable growth in the region. We believe this meeting will provide another valuable platform for discussion and collaboration on important issues we face.”
The ABAC Philippines group is committed to advancing the interests of the Asia-Pacific business community and contributing to the region’s economic development. The third leg of ABAC will provide an opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ potential as an investment destination and to foster greater regional cooperation and integration. This is illustrated in the ABAC 3 invitational video conceptualized and produced by Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications Secretary Paul Soriano and his team from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications (OPACC).
ABAC III in Cebu promises to be an unforgettable experience, where business and culture intersect to create opportunities for growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. The conference will be held at the NUSTAR Convention Center in Cebu City, Philippines from July 27 to 30, 2023. Over 200 delegates and guests from the 21 APEC economies are expected to attend.
