The Event

The big event we've been preparing for is over.

The 14th Caraga Business Conference was finally over. And the turn out is a gratifying one. From the 200 target participants, we have gathered 350+. And from zero sponsor, we have contracted 3. So in spite of all the pressures that marks wrinkles in my face (although i am already ampalaya-wrinkled), everything have been rewarding.

We are superhumans (or shall i self acclaim). Who would have thought that for only 5 manpower doing the planning and legwork for 25 days, a successful conference can be produced. But of course, thanks goes to those who have help us out in some aspects like the following:

• the SEDF for the distribution of the invitations to the local municipal executives,
  
• the company messengers for the distribution of the communications around the city,
• the GEM-USAID for inviting outside participants from as far as Kidapawan City, Pagadian City, and Dipolog City. GEM-USAID is also our major sponsor.
  
• the DTI Caraga Region and Province for handling the Trade Fair and Exhibit and distribution of communications and promotional materials, especially to Sir Driggs (the dynamite, my work idol) for drafting the conference resolutions.
• the City and Provincial Government for the all-out support. ALWAYS.
• the Philex Mining, Globe Telecom, Daydream Laguna Resort, and Taganito Mining for sponsoring the activity
• the participants for making things happen
• Screwface and PCA for the plaque and ID layout
  
• the PCCI National and PCCI Mindanao
• absolutely God who answered my prayers during Sunday Mass to make the event a success.
  

The well-selected topics really served its best purpose and suits the expectations of the participants. The BIR was there to discuss the alarming issues of the agency and address the gap between them and the business community. Real Estate business opportunities was presented. The participants were also inspired by the stories of the Surigao City LGU and the Metro Naga Chamber in their success in public-private partnership. And no less than Philex Mining Corporation Chairman, Dr. Walter W. Brown, personally attended and presented their companies programs and opportunities.

The acknowledged guests that includes Officials from PCCI and GEM, Caraga Chamber Presidents and other presentors opened the Trade Fair and Exhibit cum Christmas Bazaar that will run until December 5, 2008. It showcases the local export-quality products under the OTOP Program of the DTI.

The 14th CBC was not only a jampacked conference, but one which has substance. And definitely unforgettable.

It was closed by not the usual speech of a politician but rather an inspiring individual who hails from Surigao City and written a book of his biography and journey towards success. And the inspired me have my copy of his booked autographed...

God is really good. The month of November was full of heavy rains and our preparation was showered with curtains of it causing us some delays in the workplan. But during the activity, the skies were crystal clear and hot as hell. The Eagle Shrine Tour this morning in Dinagat Islands was even a scorching one with the warm welcome of delegates organized by Dinagat's provincial government. It was flocked by locales and students waving their colorful banderitas. Thank you Provincial Government of Dinagat Islands for sponsoring the tour. You indeed showcased one of your mystical jewels. Thank you also Philippine Navy-Surigao for bringing the participants to Dinagat Islands.

'Til next Caraga Business Conference again in Surigao City in 2012..

Pose with the emcee