The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) will convene its annual Business Summit 2025 on October 8 under the banner “Thriving Thru Turbulence: Advancing Philippine Manufacturing, Resilience & Growth.” The event will bring together top government officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to deliberate on how the public and private sectors can jointly accelerate the revitalization of local manufacturing.
The summit will be held at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City, and will feature a robust program blending keynote addresses, fireside chats, and ceremonial partnerships.
Distinguished Speakers & Agenda Highlights
The FPI summit will open with welcome remarks from FPI leadership and a chairman’s address by Elizabeth H. Lee. Among the headliners:
- Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for government policy direction on trade, industry, and export competitiveness.
- Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno will speak on customs reforms, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling efforts.
- Secretary Frederick Go of SAPIEA (Special Assistance for Industrial and Export Activities) will also offer insights into government support for indigenous industries.
- Fireside chats and a ceremonial MOU signing are planned to strengthen collaboration between the private sector and government.
Public-Private Partnership: Fueling the Manufacturing Renaissance
In recent years, the Philippine manufacturing sector has faced headwinds — from global supply chain disruptions to regulatory bottlenecks and rising input costs. The FPI summit aims to bring together both sides of the table to co-design strategies that address these challenges.
Commissioner Nepomuceno will emphasize improvements in customs procedures, digitalization, and anti-smuggling enforcement, which are critical for speeding border clearances and reducing costs for manufacturers.
A highlight of the event will be the ceremonial MOU signing, symbolizing fresh collaboration between industry and government toward shared goals.
Why This Matters: Manufacturing as an Engine of Growth
Philippine manufacturing is seen as a vital engine for job creation, export growth, and economic resilience. With global competition intensifying, many industry leaders argue that the country must pivot from low-value assembly work to more integrated, higher-value manufacturing.
This summit represents a turning point — by convening both policy makers and industry players under one roof, FPI hopes to catalyze reforms, partnerships, and investments that will strengthen the Philippines’ position in regional and global supply chains.
