PCCI Iloilo President Fulbert C. Woo delivered a compelling address during the culmination of the UPV Youth Congress 2025, held at the UPV Auditorium in Miagao. Speaking before a crowd of student leaders and community stakeholders, Woo emphasized the significance of public-private collaborations, particularly between local government units (LGUs) and business chambers like PCCI Iloilo, in shaping inclusive and sustainable development.
Organized by UPV Discursus, the UPV Youth Congress marked the university’s first-ever youth-led summit focused on local governance and civic leadership. Held throughout April 2025, the summit engaged student leaders in a month-long legislation practicum, empowering them to draft local ordinances aimed at addressing real-world social issues in Miagao, Iloilo.
President Woo underscored how PCCI Iloilo’s growing partnerships with LGUs across Iloilo province have not only advanced the local economy but have also opened doors for meaningful civic engagement, innovation, and social impact. “We believe that development should not be siloed. When LGUs work hand-in-hand with business sectors, academia, and the youth, we create stronger, more responsive communities,” he shared during his talk.
Highlighting key collaborations with the City and Provincial Governments of Iloilo, Woo pointed to successful projects like the ILOBEX (Iloilo Business Expo) which was awarded the Presidential Citation for Improving Market Access in 2024, and the INSYNC program supporting local startup development. He noted that these programs thrive because of intentional dialogue and alignment with public policy priorities.
More importantly, Woo lauded UPV Discursus for involving the youth in the policymaking process. “You don’t have to wait to lead. You’re already leading—by learning how governance works, and by thinking critically about legislation that impacts your town,” he told the delegates.
The event is endorsed by the UPV Office of the Chancellor, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and the College of Arts and Sciences Dean Pepito Fernandez Jr. It is also held in partnership with the LGU of Miagao, through SB Japhet Grace Gasapo Moleta, and the Department of Education Schools Division of Iloilo City.
As PCCI Iloilo continues to advocate for inclusive leadership and multisectoral engagement, Woo affirmed the organization’s support for platforms that bridge young leaders, local governments, and the business community. “The future of Iloilo depends on how we work together now—and it starts here, with you.”
#PCCIIloilo
