CBM 2018 to showcase Cebu’s innovative edge

CEBU, Philippines —  Making the world know that Cebu is a powerhouse of innovations, this year’s Cebu Business Month (CBM 2018) will showcase the innovative pride of Cebu across various sectors.

Now on its 22nd year, the annual flagship event of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) will converge innovators across industries in Cebu from start-up to micro-small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) to successful homegrown global shapers, under the theme "Innovate Cebu."

Chaired by hotelier Benny Y. Que of Golden Prince Hotel and Suites, this year's CBM is a perfect follow-up of last year's CBM thrust "Step Up."

In a press conference held Thursday to introduce the different activities lined up for the month-long event this June, Que said discovering what Cebu has in terms of innovation and show them to the world is relevant in today's digital-driven and competitive business environment.

While Cebu is confident of its rich talent in innovation, Que said CBM 2018 will serve as the avenue for innovators, angel investors and meet in order for start up to grow big and launch their innovations in the commercial market.

Innovations in tourism, entrepreneurship, in ICT/BPM (Information and Communications Technology/Business Process Management), as well as breakthroughs in the creative sector will be highlighted during the month.

"CBM’s objective has always been to inspire, promote, and grow businesses. For this year, many will be able to see and hear the paradigm shift of the businesses through innovation," Que said.

To be launched formally on May 10, 2018 at the Ayala Center Cebu, the different activities under the Entrepreneurship, Tourism, and ICT/BPM are expected to attract delegates from all over the world.

An amazing race-type event called "Lumba'g Laag" will highlight the hidden tourism treasures in Cebu's south-west corridor schedule on June 10-12.

The "Tourism Innovation Summit" on June 14, will also bring together world tourism experts and strategists such as the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (SACEOS) president Janeth Tan-Collis to share Singapore's success in boosting revenues from MICE (meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibits) and tourism innovation.

Department of Tourism (DOT) secretary Wanda Teo is also expected to speak during the summit.

CBM 2018 will also celebrate new event partnerships that led to collaborations with Design Week (June 16-23), MSME Industry Edtour on June 22, and Sugbo Entertainment Expo or SEE Cebu on June 23-24.