History Unveils at The First International Summit On Mindanao

Philippines is one of the riches archipelago when it comes to natural resources. It is sad that we are not maximizing the potential to take advantage of it. One of the most riches parts in the archipelago can be found in Mindanao. One of the examples of these resources are rubber in Zamboanga and coffee in Sulu which I also learned from Coffee Origins 2012.

Princess Isabelle (center) and Shariff Albani(far right)

The conflict in Mindanao is one of the main concerns to both Christians and Muslims. I will not deal with the issue but I can only say what can we do about it. One of the possible solutions is see Mindanao from within. In order to do that, it was suggested by peace advocate Shariff Ibrahim Albani; Founding Chairperson and CEO of Unity for Revival Foundation.

Shariff Albani invites prospect investors to see the potential in making it happen by seeing the existing companies that operates within Mindanao. During the IBSM program held last June 28 in Manila Hotel, I never thought I can see dignitaries from different countries including China and Japan in one place. The Princess of Mindanao, Isabelle Lafforgue was also present to support the summit.

During the presentations, I got to see that the existing major businesses in Zamboanga are inside the Economic Zone like San Miguel Corporation, Globe Telecoms and more to be listed. Besides the existing businesses, it is also suggested that Mindanao can also be a major tourist destinations because it also has white sand beaches that can compete with Boracay and Coron. In addition to the beaches, there are also historical landmarks for us to see.

Before we were colonized, our nation were already prosperous and in content even without any monetary unit. We only bartered. Sure, there were conflicts but it was easily settled. This historic gathering will be a start of a new Mindanao and to the hope that this summit will be instrumental will bring peace. Shariff Albani's vision is for this event is to help the government. Instead of doing nothing, why not do something. But the next step is, what role can take part to make it happen. For more updates and future events about ISBM, follow this blog or like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

First International Business Summit on Mindanao Slated on June 28 (Saturday)

Pre-Summit Press Release:

June 28, 2014 marks a significant milestone in the history of Mindanao as business leaders all over the world converge at the Manila Hotel for the First International Business Summit on Mindanao!

In line with the vision "RESTORE THE LOST GLORY OF MINDANAO", the summit aims to showcase Mindanao to the world business community and to encourage global investors as well as businessmen to personally interact with local community leaders and entrepreneurs.

The recent signing of the much awaited and historic Bangsamoro Agreement has tremendously enhanced the investment climate of Mindanao and has paved the way both for domestic and international investors, businessmen and entrepreneurs.

This event, which is the first and frontrunner summit on Mindanao, will be attended by both local and international investors, entrepreneurs, businessmen, and other organizations which have an immense interest in further developing Mindanao as a core business region.

The panelists to the summit will include, but not limited to, persons and entities which have more than enough exposure and experiences about Mindanao and have plans of further improving the overall development of the region.

Mindanao, with its rich mineral resources, ecological value, human talents and skills, and economic potentials was, in the past, regarded as one of the richest regions not only in the Philippines, but in the whole world.

But events changed the prosperity once enjoyed by Mindanao and its people. Diversities led to divisions and the unity of the people of Mindanao in the past was disrupted by selfish motives. Business was corrupted by the desire to make profits in dishonorable ways and means. The rich became richer and the poor became poorer.

However, recent events have altered this unwanted environment. With globalization, Mindanao has started to change for the better. Mindanao is now stable and ready to cultivate and nourish intensive and harmonious business links and investment tie-ups with the global community.

Summit organizer, Unity For Revival Foundation (URF) Chairman Shariff Ibrahim Albani is confident that, with the active and productive participation of various sectors in the summit, bright and achievable ideas will emerge to make Mindanao PROGRESSIVE AND UNITED ONCE AGAIN.