CCCI backs roadshow to boost Cebu MSMEs, job creation

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) reinforced its push to strengthen micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and workforce development by backing the first provincial staging of Go Negosyo’s “Trabaho at Negosyo” roadshow in Cebu, as business groups and employers seek to expand job creation and entrepreneurship opportunities outside Metro Manila.

Held on May 9 at SM Seaside City Cebu, the initiative brought together job seekers, entrepreneurs, MSMEs, government agencies and private sector partners in a bid to support employment generation and inclusive economic growth in Central Visayas.

The Cebu event marked the first provincial rollout of Go Negosyo’s jobs and entrepreneurship roadshow, highlighting the organization’s broader effort to widen access to business mentorship, skills development and employment opportunities across the regions.

Hundreds of applicants attended the event, where companies conducted on-site recruitment and business leaders provided mentorship sessions for aspiring entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Organizers said several applicants were hired on the spot during the job fair, underscoring sustained labor demand in Cebu’s expanding services and enterprise sectors.

CCCI, one of the program’s institutional partners, deployed senior business leaders to lead mentoring sessions focused on enterprise growth, innovation, sustainability and MSME development.

Among those representing the Chamber were CCCI President Regan Rex King, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Director and Vice President for MSME Development Melanie Ng, PCCI Regional Governor for Central Visayas Felix Taguiam, former CCCI President Virgilio Espeleta, Trustee Ma. Aleta Dela Calzada and Executive Director Joy Lorena Segismar.

The Chamber said its participation reflects continuing efforts to help build a more resilient and innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem in Cebu, where MSMEs remain a key source of jobs and economic activity.

“Together, let us build a Cebu where opportunities are accessible, enterprises are empowered, communities are uplifted, and growth becomes prosperity shared by all,” King said.

The event comes as Cebu’s business community intensifies efforts to accelerate post-pandemic recovery and strengthen the competitiveness of local enterprises amid rising regional and global economic pressures.