The Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) invited micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to attend its 2010 Enterprise Development Forum Series.

This year’s theme is “Responsible Business for MSMEs: Practical Approaches Towards an Eco-Friendly Business”.  Invited keynote speaker is internationally recognized policy advisor, environmental planner and consultant, Mr. Elmer Mercado, who shared his insights and experiences in implementing environmental sustainability initiatives for MSMEs.  

So why do we need to be eco-friendly? First, it is simply the law. Yes, there is a law implementing businesses to go green in the Philippines. It is also the demand of the market, as competition goes green, it is advisable that you do too. It also implement change of lifestyle and/or quality of life as people are more conscious in eating food that is sugar-free, transfat-free, calorie-free,etc; Going green also benefits public health, sanitation concerns, lifestyle and quality of life.

Eco-friendly innovations of selected clients and/or PBSP member companies was featured as testimonies where guests can draw inspiration from in employing their own environment sustainable undertakings.

Transforming your company into an eco-friendly business is an easy task according to Mr. Mercado. All it takes is a personal decision and/or business decision among the owners. You should also have the support of all concerned in the business. That includes the employees, suppliers and retailers. It is also advisable to go green especially when you are just starting your business and that the cost is still small. Still, it all falls to a decision. You cannot do it overnight, going green takes time and a lot of planning. If you are really into going green, take one step at a time, take it slow, eventually you will be able to convert your business into a full-blown eco-friendly business.

During the forum, Volunteer Advisers of PBSP’s Business Advisory Program (BAP) was given recognition for their invaluable contribution in the growth and development of BAP-assisted MSMEs.  

The Manila-leg of the forum was held last July 27, in Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati City.  Cebu series was on August 4 at the Crown Regency Hotel, Cebu City, while the Davao series is slated last August 10 at the Apo View Hotel, Davao City.

The forum was designed to be a common venue for learning, information dissemination, business-to-business (B2B) networking among MSMEs, financial institutions, and other business development service providers.  It is part of the Enterprise Development Program of PBSP.

In the photo: (L-R) Patty Calilong, PBSP Associate Director,  Volunteers Nida Autor,  Maria Theresa Danga, Jayme Ignacio, Arnold Cesar Romero & Dr. Leo Pruna. Standing at the back is Klaas Oreel, PBSP Chief Executive Advisor

The other awardees are Ramon Taniola, Maria Gemma Bien, Peji Cipriano Jr & Oscar Diongco.