MANILA, Philippines - Businessman and Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion believes that every Filipino, especially women, can be lifted from poverty and "create wealth."
"Filipinos are never destined to be poor, and over the years I've challenged many of the pessimistic people out there that the Philippines will one day be one of the best in Asia," Concepcion said in his speech at the Go Negosyo Filipina Entrepreneurship Summit on Friday.
"Everyone can create wealth for himself and eventually use that wealth to help others," he added.
Concepcion explained that the country's economy has made the workplace "extremely vibrant" for young people and has allowed more opportunities for women to put up their own businesses.
"Investments that are coming in to this country are phenomenal. There is no shortage of industrial paths today and the big establishments are putting up buildings, shopping centers, casinos and so many other things that are creating jobs," he added.
The investment grade status of the Philippine economy also poses a lot of promise for women, whom he believes are naturally adept in business.
"We see micro-entrepreneurs, over 90 percent of them are women entrepreneurs. Because it is innate in women to really serve and to ensure the safety of their family's future," Concepcion said.
Senator Grace Poe Llamanzares concurred with Concepcion and said that maximizing the potential of women in businesses, homes and the workplace is the key to the kind of growth that trickles down to the poorer sectors.
She said the poorest countries in the world do not provide a healthy place for women in society and business.
"Women's empowerment is the pathway to inclusive growth. Dapat ang mga kababaihan bigyan ng pagkakataon," Poe said.