BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) underscores the important role that small, medium and large enterprises can play for the country to attain the target of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
SEC Corporate Governance and Finance Division Director Rachel Esther Gumtan-Remalante highlighted this during the Small and Medium Industries and Large Enterprises Embracing Sustainability Roadshow in Baguio City that was attended by stakeholders from the City and other parts of Luzon.
“We envision a future where sustainability is not just a matter of awareness but a standard practice for all small, medium and large enterprises (SMLEs). By embracing sustainability, businesses can enhance their competitiveness, attract investors, and contribute to sustainable development,” Remalante said.
The SMLEs can have a big impact in the SDGs with 105,489 enterprises belonging to the group generating around 5.79 million jobs and employment opportunities, and the income it provides can help in the attainment of goals number 1 – No poverty and number 4 – quality education.
The SMLEs can also help promote and practice actions/strategies in their business to help attain SDG No. 7 – Affordable and clean energy; SDG No. 9 – Industry, innovation and infrastructure; SDG No. 10 – Reduced inequalities; SDG No. 12 – Responsible consumption and production, and SDG No. 13 – Climate action, she added.
Remalante encouraged SMLEs to practice sustainability and contribute to a sustainable and better future for the country and the Filipino people.
“I encourage all of you to take full advantage of today’s event, to learn, network, and collaborate. Together, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”
“Regardless of size, every business has a role to play in ensuring a sustainable future for all. Whether small, medium, or large, each enterprise can make a meaningful impact by adopting sustainable practices. By working together and committing to sustainability, we can create a more inclusive and resilient economy that benefits not only current but also future generations,” Remalante stressed.
The SEC is leading the roadshow in collaboration with the Accelerating Green and Climate Finance Project funded by the Government of Canada, and the UN Development Programme Philippines and aims to promote sustainability to SMLEs.
The roadshow covered topics that include overview of Sustainability Reporting by SEC; plenary talk on SDGs and SMLEs by UNDP SDG Specialist Aljo Quintans; introduction to Global Reporting Initiative by GRI Country Manager Ma. Katreena Pillejera.
The city government of Baguio and other SMLEs also shared their sustainability good practices. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)
