AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya
IN a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering cross-border economic collaborations, Consul General Senen Mangalile announced a collaborative venture between the Philippine government and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
Addressing the media during the recent Consul General’s Media Hour on Tuesday, Jan. 26, Mangalile revealed that he was flying to Manila with a delegation of a dozen members from the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce who will explore untapped business prospects.
During the session, Consul General Mangalile outlined the purpose of the delegation’s visit. “As a result of our meetings with the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, they have decided to visit the Philippines to study opportunities for Brooklyn and New York City and New York state-based businesses there,” he said.
The delegation, which arrives in Manila on Monday, January 29 has scheduled meetings with key Philippine organizations, such as the Board of Investments, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Philippine Franchisors Association.
Furthermore, the delegation will travel to Cebu to engage with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce. They will then proceed to Clark where Consul General Mangalile emphasized the importance of showcasing the transformation of former American military bases in the Philippines—a concept parallel to the Brooklyn Chamber’s efforts to revitalize old industrial estates into innovation hubs.
Mangalile highlighted the value of the Philippines’ experience. “I told them the reason they decided to come to the table is that we have already done that in the Philippines, with the former U.S. military bases. We have done exactly what you’re trying to achieve,” he shared.
The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce delegation, consisting of 12 members, including three officials, aims to explore opportunities for Brooklyn-based businesses in the country.
The Consul General underscored that the visit is part of a study mission, and depending on the findings, the delegation may explore potential partnerships and investments. Their focus includes studying the success of American companies already operating in the Philippines, such as Timex and FedEx, to ascertain the viability of expansion in Asia through the Philippines.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone as the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, founded over a century ago, seeks to expand opportunities for its members and foster economic development. The Chamber, established on February 6, 1918, continues to evolve as a driving force for the borough’s commercial and industrial interests, providing valuable services, new opportunities, and support for its members. (By Momar G. Visaya/AJPress) n
