Philbex vows continued support for Cebu construction industry

Buoyed by the favorable outcome of the 2nd Philippine Building and Construction Exposition (Philbex) recently held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, organizer Worldbex Services International (WSI) promised to continue support for the construction industry in Cebu.

"Philbex believes in Cebu’s potential and its resilience towards setbacks. It will continue to back the endeavors of the city’s local construction sector," said WSI founding chairman Joseph L. Ang said during Philbex Cebu 2004 opening ceremony.

"The initiative for recovery must come from within the industry. It we want to bounce back from the slump, we must learn to rely on ourselves," Ang added. "Who else would help each other attain the road to progress but us citizens of this country?"

Meanwhile guest speaker Cebu City vice mayor Michael Rama commended WSI for its significant contribution to the local, national and even global construction industry. "Activities like this (Philbex Cebu 2004) bring bullish results. And as long as there is Philbex, there is progress," he said.

Property developers, interior designers, construction developers, product designers and architects were among the visitors of the well-attended expo.

Close to 200 exhibitors of furniture, hardware, interior design, information technology, building and construction products, telecommunication gadget, security and fire equipments participated in the three-day event. Majority of the exhibitors, such as HCG, Hydro Seal, Raised Floors, Mattwood, Toto Mariwasa, and Stone Age were also participants in the recent World Building and Construction exposition (Worldbex) 2004.

Local and international specialists on building and construction issues shared their expertise with the Cebuano professionals via free seminars. Invited speakers were arch. Gilbert Yu of G&W Architects, Engineers, Project Development Consultants; Sally Clark, vice president for operations of Kingsford Environmental Phils. Inc.; high-pressure laminate specialist Thanee Limsetoe from Thailand; John Richards, director of TLX Technical Lighting Phils.; and arch. Rolando Miranda of RTM Design Group.

A highlight of Philbex Cebu 2004 was the Gayak Pilipino, an exhibit that showcased the ideal Filipino Asian Home designed by top interior designers of the country. Johnny Hubilla, architect Benny Marasigan, Leo Almeria and Roland Laurena masterfully executed the Pinoy-inspired designs via a fusion of modern and indigenous materials.

"Philbex intends to open more doors and possibilities for the Cebu construction industry," explained Ang to the Cebuanos. "We hope you could join us again next year."