THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) kicked off Friday, May 31, 2019, the monthlong Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2019.

“We kick off a monthlong pursuit of imparting and sharing knowledge with today’s grand opening salvo, as we showcase the best of what Cebu has to offer, while still paying tribute to the earlier innovations of our fellow Cebuanos,” said CBM 2019 chairperson Lilu Aliño.

This year’s CBM is anchored on the theme: “Innovation in Action.”

The launch of the annual business festival took place at The Terraces of the Ayala Center Cebu.

Aliño promised that the chamber will highlight the importance of innovation in all aspects of business.

“In today’s digital age, technology and other innovations are needed to keep up with the ever changing game of business,” she said.

CCCI president Virgilio Espeleta said the CBM is an opportune time to establish new contacts, reconnect with business partners and enablers and discuss concerns of mutual interest with stakeholders across different sectors in the areas of tourism, information and communications technology-business process management, entrepreneurship and creative industries.

Now on its 23rd year, the monthlong activity provides venue for entrepreneurs, local and foreign investors, tourists and government to converge, get updates on innovation and trends, form and bind ties, as well as market and promote their state-of-the-art products, services and technology and to celebrate the best performers in Cebu’s business community.

Espeleta said this year’s theme is guided by CCCI’s own version of Vuca, which stands for value-creation, unity of aspiration and purpose, convergence and collaboration and advocacy on “Prosperity for All” through inclusive growth.

“CBM 2019 has programs and activities geared toward helping Cebu’s business industry collaborate and promote innovation to the various industry players,” Espeleta said.

Hours before the CBM grand opening, the One Town, One Product Exhibit was unveiled to the public on the ground floor of Ayala Center Cebu.

The exhibit runs from May 31 to June 5. (KOC)