SLT 1243
December 16-22, 2023
The Southern Leyte Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SLCCI) staged a vibrant opening of the Padajon Christmas Bazaar and Livelihood Training program at the Maasin City Gym on the morning of December 15, 2023. The power interruptions did not dampen the spirit of those who were present.
The realization of this first-ever kind of event in Eastern Visayas was made possible by the united efforts of the business community represented by SLCCI, the City Government of Maasin, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the First Congressional District of Southern Leyte, and the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte.
During the launching, relevant messages were delivered by Congresswoman Luz V. Mercado, Vice Mayor Maloney L. Samaco for Mayor National V. Mercado, and DTI Supervising Officer Pedro Bimbo B. Tan for DTI Regional Director Celerina T. Bato. PCCI Vice President for the Visayas Melanie Ng also gave an inspiring video message. They all highlighted the significance of micro, small and medium enterprises in the local economy; and commended SLCCI for the initiative.
Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Chairperson for Power and Energy Frank Carbon A. Carbon said that holding this kind of activity stimulates business and opens a lot of opportunities. It is also a chamber movement that facilitates working together with government units.
Carbon also shared two important things that the Philippine Chamber of Commerce is pursuing for the next few years. One is the supply and cost of electric power; to push for the regional development council to craft a power development network. He said that the Southwestern Tagalog Region or MIMAROPA experience can be shared to Southern Leyte-Eastern Visayas through SLCCI.
The agriculture food sector will also be a focus of Philippine business through PCCI; manufacture and distribution of food effectively and efficiently with least cost possible. And together with this is on hospitality services, Carbon further said.
Providing more life to the opening program were the beautiful rendition of the national anthem and Southern Leyte hymn by The College of Maasin (CM)’s College of Nursing Nightingales, CM’s graceful folk dances, and a happy medley song. The impressive finale was performed by the Saint Joseph College’ Tourism and Hospitality Management students, who confidently glided the center aisle of the gym, in indigenous tribal-inspired costumes. (GMReyes)
