Baguio City and its neighboring communities in the Metro BLISTT area are gearing up for a pivotal event that can jumpstart their economic journey—the Economic Summit on February 4, 2025.
Spearheaded by the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) and the Baguio-Benguet Chapter of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), this event promises to address pressing challenges and chart a sustainable course for regional growth.
In a special podcast episode, Manang Lucy of the Baguio Chronicle had a chat with Ric Bayao, PMAP representative and member of the board of trustees (PMAP Baguio-Benguet Chapter).
PMAP and PCCI as catalysts for progress
PMAP, a professional association dedicated to advancing human resource management (HRM) and industrial relations (IR), has a long history of contributing to nation-building through its member companies and executives. With 30 chapters nationwide, PMAP fosters dynamic local programs, emphasizing people development as a foundation of economic progress.
“We aim to mold socially responsible and competent people managers who can actively participate in economic development,” Bayao shared. By equipping workers with essential skills, PMAP hopes to attract investors to the BLISTT area and beyond.
PCCI’s Baguio-Benguet Chapter, meanwhile, has been a steadfast partner in promoting business growth. Together with PMAP, PCCI is preparing to facilitate a collaborative forum where stakeholders from various sectors—government, businesses, and communities—can share insights, brainstorm ideas, and drive actionable solutions.
Tackling Metro BLISTT challenges
The Metro BLISTT area, which comprises Baguio City and the nearby municipalities of La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, and Tublay, faces unique economic and urban planning challenges. Rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental vulnerabilities demand a unified, well-coordinated approach.
Key goals for the Economic Summit include:
- Urban Renewal and Infrastructure Development: Addressing issues like transport, traffic management, housing, and land use planning.
- Sustainability: Promoting practices that preserve cultural heritage, enhance disaster resilience, and integrate renewable energy solutions.
- Collaboration Among Stakeholders: Encouraging active community engagement to shape policies that reflect local priorities and needs.
“The summit will be an avenue for stakeholders to share ideas and ensure that everyone has a role in the success of Metro BLISTT,” Bayao emphasized.
The role of BLISTTDA
Central to these efforts is the newly established Metro BLISTT Development Authority (BLISTTDA), created under RA No. 11932. Tasked with planning, monitoring, and coordinating area-wide services, BLISTTDA will oversee projects ranging from flood control and sewerage management to public safety and tourism development. Crucially, it aims to respect local autonomy while ensuring regional integration.
“With BLISTTDA’s guidance, we can create a long-term development framework that positions Metro BLISTT as a model for other regions in the Philippines,” Bayao noted.
Bridging economic and environmental goals
Sustainability is a crucial element of the summit agenda. They plan to showcase successful practices that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. These include:
- Tourism Development With a Focus on Cultural Heritage: Programs to educate communities about respecting local traditions and values.
- Resilient Infrastructure: Planning for climate change impacts and disaster risk reduction.
- Circular Economy Initiatives: Improving waste management, water supply systems, and renewable energy adoption.
Recognizing the importance of grassroots involvement, PMAP and PCCI prioritize community engagement in their economic strategies. From roundtable discussions to programs that foster public participation, the summit seeks to amplify local voices.
The path forward
The Economic Summit is just the beginning of a broader vision for Metro BLISTT. Organizers hope the event will lead to:
- Inclusive Growth: Addressing social infrastructure, housing, and gender equality.
- Productive Economies: Strengthening local institutions and fiscal management.
- Connected Communities: Enhancing transport, ICT infrastructure, and inter-municipality coordination.
The collaboration between PMAP, PCCI, and BLISTTDA signals a new chapter of progress for the region. As the February forum approaches, all eyes will be on how these partnerships translate into actionable plans that benefit businesses and residents alike.
“The time has come to unite as stakeholders and shape a brighter economic future for Metro BLISTT,” Bayao concluded.
For business leaders, policymakers, members of the academe, community members, NGOs, and other cause-oriented groups, the summit is a call to action. By working together, the vision for a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Metro BLISTT is well within reach.
For inquiries and to reserve a seat at the Economic Summit happening this February 4 at the Baguio Country Club, please contact 0999-8784615 / 0967-0338152 or pccibaguiobenguetchamber@gmail.com.