BARAS, RIZAL | The Department of Trade and Industry-Rizal, in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Rizal, proudly concluded the 2nd Eastern Rizal Business Conference (ERBC) held at the Baras Municipal Gymnasium.
Following the success of its pilot run last year, this year’s conference brought together of more than 300 participants representing key industries, government agencies, and the dynamic MSME sector from across Eastern Rizal. Themed “Building Better Future for the East,” the event served as a vital platform for policy dialogue, investment promotion, access to support services, and entrepreneurial empowerment in the region.
In her welcome remarks, Baras Vice Mayor Hon. Kathrine Robles shared the municipality’s aspirations for inclusive growth, stating, “Hangad namin ang sustainable na pag-unlad upang patuloy na makasabay sa pagbabago, maging future-ready ang bawat komunidad at indibidwal sa pagtanggap ng anumang hamon sa ating lipunan.”
DTI Rizal Provincial Director Cleotilde M. Duran led the opening of the program, which was graced by the presence of Congressman Dino Tanjuatco, Board Member Junrey San Juan, PCCI Rizal President Gladdie Mallari, and PCCI Eastern Rizal President Atty. Johannes Aquino.
Key government and private sector agencies were invited to participate in four (4) impactful panel discussions on:
- Improved Business Climate and Investment Opportunities – with insights from the Board of Investments (BOI);
- Access to Financing – led by Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) and BDO;
- Productivity and Innovation – with resource persons from DOLE and DOST;
- Access to Market – joined by representatives from Converge and Meralco.
Aside from the rich discussions, the venue was surrounded by product exhibits featuring Rizal MSMEs supported by DTI’s flagship programs such as KMME-MME, OTOP Next Gen, CHAMPS and many more. Support booths from private sector partners BDO, Meralco, Security Bank, Converge, Toyota, and Bayad Agent were also present.
The conference concluded on an inspiring note with an “InspoTalk” delivered by Ms. Azenith Castalone, owner of Pio’s Gourmet Tuyo and recognized DTI Rizal MSME Champion, who shared her entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to market success.
With strong participation from both public and private stakeholders, the 2nd Eastern Rizal Business Conference reaffirmed DTI Rizal’s commitment to building a robust, inclusive, and forward-looking business ecosystem in the eastern part of the province. ♦
Date of Release: 4 August 2025