Mandaue chamber inks deal with Russian business group

CEBU, Philippines — The Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has entered into a formal agreement with the Alliance of Business Structures and Entrepreneurs of Southeast Asia in Russia (B2BASEAN) to deepen trade and investment cooperation between local businesses and the Russian market.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed on May 26, 2025, at Oakridge Business Park in Mandaue City, aims to strengthen commercial links and open new opportunities for entrepreneurs in both regions.

MCCI President Mark Anthony Ynoc and B2BASEAN President Lubarto Sartoyo signed the agreement, backed by senior representatives from both organizations.

Witnessing the signing were MCCI Vice President for Internal Affairs Walter Ong and Immediate Past President Kelie Ko, alongside B2BASEAN Chief Executive Officer Amerigo Tatel, who co-signed the document.

The deal follows a broader strategy by MCCI to expand its international partnerships.

Last year, the chamber led a trade mission to Russia, alongside then Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and members of the provincial board, culminating in separate MOUs with the Moscow and St. Petersburg Chambers of Commerce.

“This agreement is part of our long-term vision to create global pathways for local businesses,” said Ynoc. “We believe these partnerships can generate fresh opportunities for growth and innovation.”

B2BASEAN, a nonprofit that fosters economic ties between ASEAN nations and Russia, visited Cebu this week to formalize the collaboration.

The group’s focus includes facilitating business exchanges, investment matchmaking, and knowledge sharing across borders.

With this agreement in place, both parties signaled a commitment to work closely on initiatives that promote bilateral trade, encourage joint ventures, and provide market access for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The MOU reflects a broader trend of sub-national players stepping into a more active role in global trade diplomacy—an increasingly important dynamic amid shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes. — (FREEMAN)