NAGA CITY --- The Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) conducted its one-day expo on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) last Wednesday, August 12, at Magdalena Hall, Crown Hotel here, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
With the theme, "Bicol Express: To Prosperity, Right on Track!", the expo was attended by representatives from various chambers of commerce in Bikol, PBSP member companies, the academe, NGOs, and LGUs who have confirmed attendance, according to Rowena B. Sugay, Foundation Affairs Manager.
PBSP, with its 248 member-companies is the country's largest corporate-led social development foundation with a long history of partnership in Bikol in accord with its commitment to poverty reduction.
The PSBP conducted learning sessions, free consultations, and an exhibit and trade fair. The exhibits included:
PBSP in Bicol (An Exhibit). The exhibit traces how PBSP has been involved in and committed to the development of Bikol. It also shows what PBSP is doing now, and what it still hopes to do in and with Bikol.
Health in the Workplace Program. With 100 Filipinos dying every day from the disease, tuberculosis prevention is a priority program. PBSP will present how the private and public sectors can partner to help control TB in Bikol. Other health programs will also be shared with companies, so that they can improve the health and welfare of employees.
Business in Development (BiD) Challenge Coaching. The BiD Challenge is an international business plan competition for individuals or organizations that have business ideas that both generate profit and reduce poverty.. In 2007, Marianne Olano of Naga City made it to the semi-finals, which paved the way for her business, Baycrafts Jewelry, to participate in various trade fairs in SM Malls nationwide. BiD is open to Bikol-based entrepreneurs.
Business Advisory Program (PBSP-BAP). PBSP-BAP helps micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) develop and improve their business. Volunteer advisers share their expertise on business operations, marketing, packaging and more. At the PBSP CSR Caravan, BAP will offer free consultations for MSMEs. PBSP hopes to recruit volunteer advisers from Bikol. (www.naga.gov.ph)
