March 21, 2025- The European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) recently held an event titled Investing in People: The Key to Bacolod’s Sustainable Growth, which aimed to address workforce challenges and opportunities in Bacolod City. The event, held today at the SMX Convention Center, SM Bacolod City, featured a comprehensive agenda focused on preparing Bacolod’s workforce for an inclusive and sustainable future.
As a bilateral foreign chamber, the ECCP plays a vital role in promoting European interests in the Philippines and fostering Philippine-European business relations. Its initiatives include organizing business meetings, hosting seminars with local and international resource speakers, and engaging in policy dialogues with Philippine government officials on economic issues affecting both regions.
The event opened with welcome remarks from ECCP Executive Director Florian Gottein. Bacolod City Councilor Kalaw Puentevella then delivered a message emphasizing the city’s commitment to sustainable growth through investment in human capital. He underscored the importance of education, healthcare, and skills development in equipping Bacolod’s workforce to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“Bacolod’s path to sustainable growth is built on a foundation of investing in its people. Education is a top priority, ensuring that both the youth and adult learners have access to scholarships, skills training, and opportunities that prepare them for a rapidly evolving world. Equally important is health and well-being, as progress is only possible when people are strong and capable. By expanding healthcare services and improving access to quality medical care, Bacolod is ensuring that its workforce is not just surviving but thriving, making the city an attractive place for investment and business growth,” Puentevella said.
He further remarked, “As we move forward, let us remember this: Every peso invested in people is a peso invested in the future. If we educate them, they will build. If we empower them, they will innovate. If we support them, they will succeed. And when they succeed, Bacolod succeeds.”
The event featured several keynote speakers who provided valuable insights on building a sustainable and future-ready workforce:
Rafael Coscolluela, Convenor of Paghimud-os Negros Inc., delivered a keynote address on Human Capital as the Key to a Sustainable and Inclusive Economy.
Dr. Richelle Verdeprado Mangga, Head of Bacolod’s Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), discussed Resilient Leadership in a Changing World.
Ronnie Oyos, CEO of Dobo Ads Inc., highlighted Future-Ready Skills: Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy.
Jeanette Patindol, Research Team Leader at NOPSAS, spoke on Sustainability Skills: Renewable Energy and Waste Management Practices.
Ken Cariño, an Entrepreneurship Management Professor, conducted a session on Entrepreneurship Bootcamp: Building and Managing Eco-Friendly Businesses.
The event concluded with a panel discussion, a question-and-answer session, and a networking opportunity, fostering connections among participants and stakeholders.
Through this initiative, the ECCP continues to strengthen Bacolod’s capacity for sustainable growth by advocating for education, innovation, and collaboration as key drivers of economic progress.
Source – Bacolod City PIO
