Private sector urged to help sustain Phl competitiveness

CEBU, Philippines - Even with the positive performance of the country in the global competitiveness level, trade official urged the private sector to work with the government in addressing notable concerns particularly on skills development to sustain its progress.

Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Merly Cruz said during the PhilConstruct Visayas 2012 that the involvement of the private sector is vital in the government’s goals to resolve the problems that the country is currently dealing with.  

Acknowledging the growth in the grassroots level, she also said that part of the mainstream should include the promotion of an entrepreneurial base for small and medium enterprises.

She further cited that in the recent global competitiveness report, Philippines ranked 65th out of 144 countries this year and indicated an improvement of ten ranks in two consecutive years.

She then encouraged businessmen, consumers, non-government organizations, the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc. and Cebu Contractors Association, Inc. to take active participation towards the development of the skills of workers to enhance their productivity.

Meanwhile, City Councilor Margot Osmeña described Cebu City as one construction site with its growth and development happening.

 “Witnessing the sustained construction activities, Cebu continues to lead,” she said.

Such vital development, she added, is also manifested as the city is working out as a pioneer of the country’s first Bus Rapid Transit by 2015 which will follow the South Road Properties project.

“This affirms that Cebu City is second to none,” she concluded.

PhilConstruct Visayas 2012 was a three-day exposition that held last September 6 to 8 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino and was participated by more than 150 exhibitors and close to 7000 visitors. (FREEMAN)