HK investors eye Iloilo’s BPO, tourism

ILOILO CITY — Businessmen from Hong Kong are looking at possible investments in the city and province of Iloilo. Rex Aguado, Philippine Association of Hong Kong (PAHK) chairman, said priorities are Iloilo’s potentials for business process outsourcing (BPO) and tourism sectors.

PAHK facilitated the Iloilo business mission for the Chinese group last May 17. It came a month after Ilonggo government and business leaders presented investment portfolios in Hong Kong. a special administrative region of China.

Aguado cited the strong proficiency of Iloilo’s human resources. He noted that Chinese is looking to establish BPO companies that can offer English online tutors for Chinese students.

Vincent Hon of Hong Kong Hainan Commercial Association said they want to tap Iloilo’s social enterprises.

Prof. Danny Chau, founding vice president of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Association, said Iloilo can be a good hub for student exchange while Ilonggo businessmen can also explore trade ties in Hong Kong.

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and Ritchel Gavan of the Iloilo City Promotions Office presented investment portfolio for services, manufacturing, agri-business, arts and culture; research, and technology.

Velma Jane Cubing-Lao, chief of Iloilo Provincial Economic and Investment Promotion, highlighted investment opportunities in the tourism sector.

The Chinese business group also met with Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr., Narzalina “Narz” Lim of Iloilo Economic Development Foundation Inc. (ILED) and Ramon Cua-Locsin of Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Panay Inc. (FFCCCPI).