In a gathering aimed at fostering collaboration between government bodies, private partners, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), this year’s Cavite MSMEs Business Conference took place at Fynn Boutique Hotel on September 28, 2023. The event, organized under the theme “#FoodSecure.PH: Government, Private Partners, and Cavite MSMEs on the Road to Food Security”, was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Government of Cavite through the Office of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer (OPCDO), Cavite Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (CaSMEDC), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Cavite, and the City Government of Bacoor.
The event commenced with an opening address by Dir. Revelyn A. Cortez, OIC-Assistant Regional Director of DTI IV-A and Cavite 7th District Board Member Francisco Gabriel D. Remulla, they welcomed the esteemed guests and participants.
Highlight of the conference was the keynote speech delivered by 2nd District Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla. She emphasized the critical importance of food security in the country, shedding light on the challenges faced and the collaborative solutions needed.
Ms. Teresita M. Leabres, Chairperson of Cavite SMED Council, presented an overview of the program, setting the stage for an insightful discussion. Prof. Ronilo Balbieran, President of Research, Education & Institutional Development (REID) Foundation, Inc., delved into the Economic Roadmap of the Philippines. He provided a comparative analysis of the economic situation in the Philippines concerning other countries and highlighted the effects of various economic disasters on the nation’s economy.
The panel discussion on Food Security and Economic Development featured prominent figures such as ARD Carmel P. Matabang, OIC-Regional Director, NEDA 4A, Dir. Revelyn A. Cortez,OIC-Assistant Regional Director, DTI IV-A, Mr. Ruben R. Perlas, Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer, Cavite Province, and Dir. Salvador V. Valeroso. Participants actively engaged with the panelists, asking pertinent questions about the crucial topics at hand.
Mr. Jeremy Gohkongwei, Founder & Group CEO of World Food Chain and Food Starter Co-Founder, Metafarms, delivered a compelling talk on “Agri and Food Security,” shedding light on innovative solutions in the agricultural sector. His insights sparked discussions on sustainable agricultural practices and their role in ensuring food security.
The event also featured the success story of Mr. Joselito P. Tibayan, General Manager of Palangue Agrarian Reform Cooperative. He shared the cooperative’s journey, detailing the methods and techniques they employed to cultivate fruits and vegetables effectively. His account underscored how these practices not only benefited the cooperative but also uplifted the lives of members in Barangay Palangue, Naic, Cavite.
The event concluded with Atty. Khervy B. Reyes, OIC-OPCDO, expressing gratitude to the partners for their unwavering commitment. He extended heartfelt thanks to Governor Jonvic C. Remulla for his steadfast support, leaving the attendees with a powerful message: “Together we can and we will make a difference.”(CPIO)
