Business and Government Leaders Unite at Davao Forum to Boost Mindanao's Economy
In a significant push to accelerate economic growth, improve connectivity, and ensure inclusive development across Mindanao, business and government leaders gathered at the 2GO Business Forum Series on March 19, 2026, at Park Inn by Radisson Davao. This event, organized in collaboration with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), highlighted a unified effort to strengthen public-private cooperation and enhance the region's competitiveness.
Strengthening Partnerships for Regional Development
The forum served as a platform for key stakeholders to discuss strategies aimed at unlocking Mindanao's full economic potential. Participants emphasized the critical role of connectivity, logistics, and collaborative policymaking in driving business expansion and promoting equitable growth across industries and communities. Representatives from 2GO Group Inc. reiterated their commitment to nation-building, positioning the company as a vital enabler of mobility and trade, particularly in underserved regions.
Francis Chua, business unit head for travel at 2GO, stressed that the company's priorities extend beyond profitability, focusing on public service and long-term value creation. He noted that reliable transport infrastructure is essential for linking markets, reducing costs, and supporting regional economies like Mindanao.
Addressing Structural Needs and Challenges
Engr. Juan Carlos Quinto of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. called for a balanced approach to development that ensures economic expansion goes hand in hand with inclusivity and global competitiveness. His remarks captured a broader sentiment among stakeholders: sustained growth in Mindanao requires coordinated action, data-driven strategies, and a shared commitment to inclusive progress.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on strengthening inter-island connectivity, seen as critical for Mindanao's continued rise. Executives from 2GO Group Inc. highlighted their expanding role in linking Mindanao to key economic hubs in the Visayas and Luzon. Sharon Musngi-Ngo, business unit head for Sea Solutions, underscored efforts to make travel more accessible and efficient through Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) passenger vessels, which improve logistics efficiency and reduce transit times.
Operational Advantages and Future Initiatives
Faye Alonzo, business unit head for Forwarding (FWD), pointed to 2GO's operational structure as a key advantage, explaining that owning and controlling its logistics network enables the company to maintain consistent and stable services, even amid external pressures like rising fuel costs. The forum also tackled pressing challenges affecting Mindanao's economic landscape, with speakers emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between the private sector and government to develop sustainable solutions.
Participants agreed that partnerships become even more critical in times of economic uncertainty, and by aligning policies, investments, and operational strategies, stakeholders can better respond to external shocks while sustaining growth momentum. This event marked the first leg of the 2026 2GO Business Forum Series, with additional forums scheduled in key growth areas including Cebu, Iloilo in Panay Island, and Pampanga, aiming to continue the dialogue on regional development and foster stronger networks nationwide.
As Mindanao positions itself as a vital engine of the Philippine economy, initiatives like this forum underscore the importance of collaboration, connectivity, and a shared vision for a more inclusive and resilient economic future.
