CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber) unveiled a comprehensive strategic directives for 2025 dubbed as INVEST. This focuses on innovation, collaboration, and economic development, positioning Cagayan de Oro as a center for sustainable growth and prosperity.
“I stands for Invest for innovation and improve the business landscape. We will prioritize initiatives that foster innovation and create a more conducive business environment. By leveraging technology and new ideas, we can enhance productivity and competitiveness,” said Engr. Almarco C. Brito, Oro Chamber’s President for 2025.
N is for building Networks with industry leaders and partners while V is for Valuing member services and engagement. E is for Enhancing economic competitiveness through capacity development.
“S stands for Strengthening manufacturing and infrastructure development. We will strive to attract sustainable investments of at least P35 billion into our manufacturing and infra sectors. These investments will not only bolster our economy but will also create jobs and opportunities for our community,” Brito added.
T, on the other hand, is for Transforming the local economy through co-creation with government, industry, and the academe.
Brito emphasized that each initiative is designed to create a meaningful and lasting impact across the business community to ensure that Chamber members are well-equipped to succeed in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
In 2024, Oro Chamber played a pivotal role in influencing key legislative initiatives in the city. The Chamber’s active participation in consultations, focus group discussions (FGDs), and meetings led to significant policy changes, including tax incentives for small businesses and streamlined processes for permits and licenses. Notable legislative achievements include the passage of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Local Investment and Incentive Code, and updates to the CDO Tourism Master Plan. The Chamber was instrumental in advancing the Northern Mindanao Halal Roadmap and the CDO Transportation Master Plan, laying the groundwork for the region’s future growth.
Collaboration has been central to the Chamber’s success. In partnership with the Regional Halal Committee and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-10, Oro Chamber led the technical working group focused on establishing Halal lanes and creating the Northern Mindanao Halal Supply Chain. The Chamber is also exploring the possibility of launching the OROBEST Halal Hub in the coming years, further strengthening the region’s position in the growing halal industry.
In November 2024, Oro Chamber launched two high-profile events to address critical regional issues.
The Housing and Construction Congress and Expo, in collaboration with the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD)-10, brought together leaders from the public and private sectors to address the national housing bubble and explore sustainable solutions for the future of housing and construction.
The Elevate Agricultural Convention, also held in November, focused on six key agricultural commodities: coffee, cacao, vegetables, fisheries, banana, and avocado. These sectors are poised for growth, and the Chamber’s efforts will help them become more productive and profitable.
Oro Chamber’s partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-10 has been essential in fostering innovation in the region. Through joint initiatives, Oro Chamber has helped facilitate research and development, expanded access to funding, and promoted capacity-building programs, ensuring that local businesses have the resources needed to innovate and stay competitive.
Moreover, Oro Chamber’s collaboration with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-X has been crucial in aligning local economic strategies with national goals. Through FGDs and strategic planning sessions, Oro Chamber and NEDA-X have worked together to tackle local economic challenges, further enhancing the region’s economic resilience.
Looking ahead, the INVEST directives will continue to serve as the guiding principle for Oro Chamber’s efforts in 2025. The Chamber remains focused on fostering innovation, attracting investment, and supporting its members through legislative advocacy, strategic partnerships, and capacity development initiatives. (APB/PIA-10)
