The two-day Bacolod Business Summit & Expo (BBSE), held at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, brought together over 500 participants from various industries to discuss innovations, networking, and business growth opportunities in the region.
This premier gathering of business owners, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in Bacolod and Negros Island, that successfully concluded Sept. 14, was initiated by the Bacolod Entrepreneurs United (BEU), in partnership with the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and supported by the Bacolod City government.
BBSE 2024 served as a dynamic platform for knowledge-sharing, leadership development, and strengthening the local business ecosystem, the BEU said in a press release Sept. 16.
This year’s theme, “Building the Future for a Sustainable Bacolod”, highlighted the importance of sustainability, technology, and public-private collaboration in fostering economic growth in Bacolod.
Keynote speakers included Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, undersecretary for ICT Industry Development at the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and Neil Montesclaros, chief operations officer of Premier Family Business Consulting. They discussed critical issues facing Bacolod’s business community, including digital transformation, leadership transition in family businesses, and sustainable business practices.
Several industry leaders also shared insights on topics ranging from digital job creation to the future of cacao farming in Negros.
Attendees likewise had the chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential partners, for networking and business growth opportunities.
Exclusive product showcases and exhibitor booths were also set up at the expo hall, which featured innovative products and services from local businesses, aimed at promoting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the highly-urbanized city.
John Anthony Ledesma, founder of BEU and organizer of the summit, thanked participants, speakers, and sponsors for making the event a resounding success.
“BBSE 2024 is proof that Bacolod’s business community is thriving and ready to take on the challenges of the future. We are committed to continuing our mission of supporting local businesses and fostering growth in the region,” said Ledesma, who likewise led the first staging of the summit and expo, also at the mall, in 2023.
The BBSE continues to be a beacon of innovation, leadership, and collaboration, contributing to the sustained growth of Bacolod’s business ecosystem, the BEU added. ||
