The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) conducted its Annual General Membership Meeting (AGMM) with the theme, “Looking Beyond the Usual: Priorities for Investments and Economic Development,” on March 23, 2024 at Bethel Guest House, Dumaguete City.
The NOCCI 2024 AGMM was initiated to provide all NOCCI members and partners an avenue to have a fellowship and a dialogue with all the members of the business community in the province of Negros Oriental. It also served as the opportunity for the business operators doing business in Negros Oriental to establish a strong network and collaboration with their fellow businessmen.
In addition, being the “voice of business” in Negros Oriental, the AGMM served as the best avenue for NOCCI to hear and address all the issues and concerns raised by the business sector in the province.
The said AGMM was participated by a total of 107 NOCCI strong members, new members, partners, and guests. The 2024 AGMM marked the beginning of a more exciting years for NOCCI as it embarked on another journey to a more dynamic and efficient business-membership services that aim at fostering a more progressive business community in Negros Oriental.
Highlighted in the NOCCI 2024 AGMM were the following:
- Induction and Oath Taking of New NOCCI Members
The 33 new NOCCI members took their Oath of Membership administered by NOCCI President Edward Du
A total of 33 new NOCCI members were warmly accepted and inducted by NOCCI President Edward Du during the NOCCI 2024 AGMM. These new NOCCI members have shown a deep commitment to support and promote NOCCI’s causes and advocacies, fortifying its voice as the leading advocate for business in the province.
- Keynote Address by Atty. Myrish Cadapan Antonio, Director at the Harvard Kennedy School and MIT Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Atty. Myrish Cadapan-Antonio, Co-Founder and CEO, The Philippine Living Heritage Initiative & Trustee and Leadership Team, Khan Academy Philippines
NOCCI was honored to have Atty. Myrish Cadapan-Antonio as the Keynote Speaker during its Annual General Membership Meeting. Atty. Cadapan-Antonio’s exposure and experience at the heart of the United States of America’s premier intellectual and knowledge hub, located in Boston, Massachusetts, have provided immense value to all NOCCI members and partners present in the AGMM. Her insights on enhancing local business services, fostering competitive advantage through technological advancements, and supporting local start-up businesses align perfectly with NOCCI’s present thrust to promote digitalization and embrace the Internet of Things (IoT) as we progress towards a fully digitalized global economy.
- Fellowship Dinner
This portion of the occasion provided an opportunity for all NOCCI members, partners, and guests to socialize and network, facilitating discussions about their respective products and services and fostering potential business opportunities.
- NOCCI President’s Report
NOCCI President Edward Du presented NOCCI accomplishments for the past two years of his administration
NOCCI President Edward Du presented to all NOCCI members and partners present during the AGMM the extensive range of NOCCI’s various advocacy programs, projects, and activities that foster business development, facilitate investment promotion, and strengthen economic growth in the province of Negros Oriental. The NOCCI President’s Report proved that all programs and initiatives undertaken by NOCCI through the years have created significant impacts in the local economy of Negros Oriental.
- Presentation of Local PPP Project at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport
Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport Manager Allan Punay during his Presentation of Local PPP Project with NOCCI at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport
Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport Manager Allan Punay presented several plans and projects for the development of the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport which aim to enhance the existing facilities in the airport to address the issues and concerns of the public. Manager Punay emphasized the significance of public-private partnership (PPP) such as the possible partnership between CAAP and NOCCI for the realization of the proposed development projects.
- Presentation of NOCCI’s New Website
NOCCI Executive Director John Jalandoni during the presentation of NOCCI website
NOCCI Executive Director John Jalandoni presented NOCCI’s newly-enhanced website developed by our member SMDCT and XMS I.T. Solutions. This website aims to cater to the diverse needs of our ever-growing membership and serve as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the area of business networking and development.
NOCCI Hosts Annual General Meeting Focused on Investment Growth
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) successfully conducted its Annual General Membership Meeting (AGMM) on March 23, 2024, at Bethel Guest House, Dumaguete City. Themed “Looking Beyond the Usual: Priorities for Investments and Economic Development,” the event provided a platform for NOCCI members, partners, and guests to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration aimed at driving economic progress in Negros Oriental.
The 2024 AGMM was designed to offer NOCCI members an opportunity for fellowship and discussion with fellow business community members in the province. This gathering served as a critical avenue for business operators in Negros Oriental to establish strong networks and collaborations, fostering a cohesive and dynamic business environment.
NOCCI President Edward Du opened the meeting by emphasizing the importance of unity and proactive engagement within the business community. He highlighted the significant role of NOCCI in advocating for business interests and addressing the challenges faced by local entrepreneurs. Du’s speech set the tone for a forward-looking discussion focused on leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared goals.
John Jalandoni, NOCCI Executive Director, presented a comprehensive overview of the chamber’s accomplishments over the past year and outlined strategic initiatives for the future. Jalandoni emphasized NOCCI’s commitment to enhancing business-membership services and creating an environment conducive to investment and economic development. His presentation included updates on ongoing projects, policy advocacy efforts, and new programs aimed at supporting business growth.
One of the highlights of the AGMM was a panel discussion featuring prominent business leaders and economic experts. The panel, moderated by a well-known industry analyst, explored investment priorities and strategies for economic development in Negros Oriental. Topics covered included infrastructure development, technological innovation, and sustainable practices. Panelists shared insights on emerging trends and opportunities, providing valuable perspectives to attendees.
The AGMM also featured interactive sessions where members could voice their concerns and suggestions directly to NOCCI leadership. This open forum allowed for a candid exchange of ideas, ensuring that the chamber remains responsive to the needs of its members. Key issues discussed included regulatory challenges, market access, and the need for more robust support systems for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
A total of 107 attendees, including strong NOCCI members, new members, partners, and guests, participated in the 2024 AGMM. The diverse representation underscored the chamber’s inclusive approach and its efforts to build a broad-based coalition of stakeholders committed to regional development. The meeting also served as a platform for new members to introduce themselves and integrate into the NOCCI community.
The event concluded with a networking session, allowing participants to establish new connections and explore potential partnerships. This session was particularly valuable for fostering collaboration and building relationships that can drive future business ventures.
In his closing remarks, Engr. Gregorio L. Uymatiao Jr. expressed optimism about the future of NOCCI and the business community in Negros Oriental. He reiterated the chamber’s dedication to being the “voice of business” in the province and assured members that their concerns and suggestions would be acted upon. Uymatiao’s remarks highlighted the collective vision for a more dynamic and efficient business environment that supports sustainable growth and development.
The 2024 AGMM marked the beginning of a new chapter for NOCCI, setting the stage for more exciting and impactful years ahead. As NOCCI embarks on this journey, its focus remains on fostering a progressive business community through enhanced services, strategic initiatives, and unwavering support for its members.
The Annual General Membership Meeting not only strengthened the bonds within the business community but also laid a solid foundation for future growth and collaboration. NOCCI’s commitment to addressing the needs of its members and driving economic development continues to position it as a vital force in the region’s progress.
