PH Consulate General in Melbourne Hosts First Major Post-Pandemic Business Networking of APBC Victoria Chapter

Philippine Consul General to Melbourne Maria Lourdes Salcedo addresses over 65 businessmen, entrepreneurs, and professionals in Victoria that could potentially hasten APBC’s role in PH-AU economic cooperation. (Melbourne PCG photo)

MELBOURNE 25 September 2023 – The Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne hosted the first major event of the Australia-Philippines Business Council since the start of the global pandemic on 20 September 2023. With the theme Australia-Philippines: Trade & Investment Updates and Latest Trends, four speakers delivered remarks capturing the state of economic relations between the Philippines and Australia.

Philippine Consul General to Melbourne Maria Lourdes M. Salcedo briefed the 65 participants on the latest macroeconomic trends in the Philippines, noting that the fundamentals show positive developments. She also noted the imbalance in trade and investment, in favor of Australia, and encouraged the participants to find synergies in the priorities of both countries to help address the imbalance and expand bilateral cooperation.

APBC President Rafael Toda also gave updates on the activities of Filipino and Australian businesses noting the great strides made and future expansion of prospects in infrastructure, renewable energy, BPO and digital  technology, among others.

Jennifer Julio, Business Development Manager of Philippine Airlines also updated the body on PAL’s progress in Australia, which includes the successful launch of their Perth services earlier this year.

National Development Company General Manager Antonilo Mauricio introduced the activities of the NDC and promoted their startup funding mechanisms which aim to produce the first Filipino unicorn.

A networking reception followed the programme, where the participants were able to discuss potential collaborations and firm up existing partnerships. END

About the APBC - (from APBC website) Founded in April 1975, the Australia Philippines Business Council is a national, non profit organization dedicated to maximizing the potential of trade and investment between Australia and the Philippines. In pursuing this mission the APBC is the private sector entity recognised by the relevant bodies of both the Australian and Philippine governments. 

Left photo: APBC President Rafael Toda. Right photo: NDC General Manager Antonilo Mauricio. (Melbourne PCG photos)

From left to right: APBC NSW Vice President George Votava, PAL Business Development Manager Jennifer Julio, NDC GM Antonilo Mauricio, APBC President Rafael Toda, Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Special Trade Representative Alma Argayoso, APBC VIC Vice President Janeca Gross, and APBC VIC Director Alfred Presbitero. Below: Participants to the APBC Networking. (Melbourne PCG photos)

For more information, visit https://melbournepcg.dfa.gov.ph/.