DAVAO CITY – The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) sees the first Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Trade, Investment, and Halal Industry Conference as a key to promote the Mindanao’s economic potential.
In a Media Business Forum in a mall here on Friday, August 9, MinDA Chairman Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said the conference in Manila on August 20 is a perfect opportunity for MinDA and Mindanao to highlight the business and investment opportunities in the region.
The one-day conference includes local and international speakers discussing the development of the Halal industry in the Philippines. It will also explore ways for BIMP-EAGA economies to collaborate and strengthen regional ties.
“When you market Mindanao, you need to step outside Mindanao. This is a positive step for our BIMP-EAGA partnership. It allows us to craft policies that facilitate smoother government and private sector collaboration,” said Magno, who also heads the Philippine Coordinating Office for BIMP-EAGA.
Magno said he hopes to create a solid investment package for Mindanao to attract investors.
Emphasizing the conference as an essential platform for discussing future strategies and building partnerships among various stakeholders in the Halal industry, he said finding new ways for the government and private sector to work together is crucial.
“As a government agency, we are grateful for initiatives like these, driven by the private sector,” said Magno who cited the PCCI and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for spearheading the event.
He said MinDA is hopeful that all stakeholders will actively participate in the event as the collective goal is to move forward together.
Magno vowed to share the outcomes of this collaboration at the upcoming BIMP-EAGA ministerial meeting in October and review the results of the various cluster meetings, including discussions on Halal certifications.
He said the conference represents a significant step forward in fostering economic integration and sustainable development within the BIMP-EAGA region. He added that this vibrant economic bloc, known for its cultural diversity and economic opportunities, especially in the Halal sector, will greatly benefit.
Magno said the event is poised to be a pivotal platform for enhancing economic collaboration and investment opportunities within BIMP-EAGA, potentially boosting export development and attracting new investments in Mindanao and nationwide.