Search for outstanding young business leaders launched

CEBU, Philippines - If the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) were to speak, developing a pool of young and competent business leaders who have delivered exemplary accomplishments in the field of entrepreneurship will ensure the continuous vibrant economic growth of Cebu and the country.

In celebration of its 110th anniversary, CCCI officially launched the search for The Outstanding Business Young Leaders of Cebu (TOBYL) following its thrust towards pursuing young business leaders’ development programs.

In partnership with the Junior Chambers International - Cebu (JCI), TOBYL is considered to be the first-of-its-kind in giving recognition to young and outstanding business leaders in Cebu.

TOBYL chairman Anastacio Muntuerto Jr. said that these accomplished young individuals shall represent the torch carriers and builders of Cebu’s future, adding that TOBYL was dubbed from a play on a Cebuano word “tubil” which refers to “fuel”.

 â€œWe need these young people to be able to propel Cebu to higher economic growth and contribute to the Philippine economy in general. We want to ensure the continuous growth of our province by developing these young business leaders and starting with them,” he said.

Muntuerto said that those who will be proclaimed as awardees of TOBYL will be granted with a scholarship masteral program in business administration in locally-selected universities.

The TOBYL search is open to residents in Cebu aging from 18 to 40 years old and possessing good moral character. In order to be qualified as a nominee, one must have started a business in the last three years or held a position of a managing director or its equivalent in a company for the same period. He must also have delivered accomplishments that have made significant impact on Cebu’s economy.

Cebu Jaycees Inc. president Kenneth Migriño said that while the youth has been active in the field of entrepreneurship, there has been no formal avenue to acknowledge the achievements of these young business individuals.

He added that the youth are proven capable in managing businesses, whether it may be small-scale or a large company.

“Once these young business individuals will be recognized, they could serve as an inspiration to those existing and budding entrepreneurs. With TOBYL, we could identify the new breed of business leaders and inspire more people,” he said.

He then encouraged young business enthusiasts to participate in TOBYL and expressed optimism that the search shall be continued in the years ahead.

Deadline for the submission of nomination forms will be on October 31 while the proclamation and awarding of winners will be held on November 15.

JCI has seven chapters in Cebu province. JCI - Cebu where Migriño belongs currently has 200 active members.

Grounded with its vision as the “Engine of Cebu’s Business Growth for Global Competitiveness”, CCCI continues to conduct activities that aim to strengthen the capabilities of its members through linkages, synergy and advocacy for Cebu.

The chamber also recognizes exemplary individuals and entities in diverse fields who have significantly contributed to the growth and development of Cebu through the Grand Chamber Awards that is held every June in sync with the Cebu Business Month. /JMD (FREEMAN)