Davao Region and the rest of Mindanao is set to be the energy hub of the Philippines. With moves to transition to more renewable sources of energy, investment opportunities in Davao are sure to increase. This was the conclusion during the “Mindanao as the Energy Hub in the Country, Davao Region as the Corridor” Webinar of the Davao Investment Conference (Davao ICon 2021).
The “Mindanao as Energy Hub” webinar is part of Davao ICon’s year-long Innovation Series. It was hosted and moderated by John Carlo Tria. Tria is President of Mapalad Energy Generating Corporation and Vice President for Trade and Commerce. During the webinar, leaders and experts from the energy and environment sectors convened. The webinar featured a panel discussion on the potential of Mindanao as a hub that can supply the energy needs of the entire Philippines.
Investment Opportunities in Davao
The webinar opened with Davao ICon 2021 Chairperson Ricardo Lagdameo who shared the investment opportunities in Davao region.
According to Lagdameo, “Investments in the Davao Region have become so robust and diverse over the years.” Lagdameo emphasized that investments in agri-business, manufacturing, tourism, real estate, and other industries have helped the Davao post consistently strong GRDP growth for the last decade.
Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCI) President Dr. Maria Lourdes G. Monteverde delivered her welcome address in which, she put the spotlight on the Davao Investment Conference on November 2021. According to Dr. Monteverde, the conference will serve as “a great avenue for the business sector to come together and discuss issues that will immensely benefit the local economy.” The Davao Chamber promises to host a world-class international conference that will focus on the sectors of real estate, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, despite the challenges of the pandemic.
Shifting to Sustainable Energy
Aboitiz Power Chief Operating Officer of Distribution Utilities Anton Perdices highlighted the vast resources available in Mindanao. These resources make the island prime to become a key source of renewable and sustainable energy for the country. He stated that resources in the region give the advantage to Mindanao to lead the forefront for investments. Moreover, Mindanao’s power supply can support the growth various industries.
Dr. Antonio Gabriel La Viña, Energy Collaboratory Director of the Manila Observatory was also present. He explained why the shift towards renewable energy is crucial to meet the nation’s commitment in addressing climate change. La Viña shares that The Philippines has voluntarily committed to a 75% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Hence, the new to transition to green energy is urgent.
ASec. Romeo Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (Minda), pointed out the significance of prioritizing the goal of a 50% renewable energy mix by 2030. He shares that the traansition to renewable energy is policy-driven.
Importance of Investments in Davao
President & Chief Operating Officer of Davao Light & Power Company Engr. Rodger S. Velasco recognizes the need for investments in the Davao. Major industries in the region continue to expand and develop. According to Velasco, “I see the potential in investing in Davao for manufacturing.”
The webinar closed with Davao ICon 2021 Co-Chairperson Nicole Bian-Ledesma’s remarks. Bian-Ledesma shares that new energy infrastructures will definitely open doors to many industries in Davao. She mentioned the investments opportunities in Davao are likely to increase, particularly in tourism, real estate, agribusiness, and manufacturing.
The upcoming Davao Investment Conference slated for November 11 and 12 will focus on these industries. And hope to bring more investments to the region.
The Innovation Series of Davao ICon will continue with two more webinars that tackle the Mindanao market and the future of logistics. Follow the Davao ICon FB page at fb.com/davaochamber to find out how you can join these upcoming events.
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Note: This article is based from PR materials sent to our Team. If you or your brand has presence and engagement in Davao, feel free to send us your press release and media advisories via email. Our email address is mydavaocity@gmail.com.