32nd North Luzon Area Business Conference Empowers North Luzon, La Union as an Emerging Investment, Destination Hub

By: Geraldine B. Salazar-Lucero, PIO | Photos By: PIO | Date: July 20-21, 2023


The Provincial Government of La Union, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of La Union Inc., and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry successfully hosted the 32nd North Luzon Area Business Conference (NLABC) on July 20-21, 2023. The event which took place at Thunderbird Resorts and Casino City of San Fernando, La Union is a meaningful gathering of key national and local government officials, and prominent business leaders in Northern Luzon.

Anchored on the theme "North Luzon: The Emerging Investment Destination Hub," the conference aimed to promote North Luzon, including La Union, as the country’s Investment and Destination hub focusing on the topics of Investments, Tourism, and Agriculture. It also served as a platform to inform, inspire, and motivate business leaders to foster local economic growth.

A Trade Fair, Heritage, Culture, and Arts Exhibit showcasing various local products from La Union and different provinces in Northern Luzon kick-started the said two-day event. The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) who joined the fair were thrilled to be part of this year's NLABC. The said fair was organized not just to highlight locally produced products but more importantly, to empower MSMEs and give importance to their commitment and significant contributions in stimulating local economic growth.

In the evening of the same day, Gov. Raphaelle "Rafy" Veronica Ortega-David hosted a welcome dinner for all the participants and guests. In her message, the governor invited them to explore La Union and its investment potential.

"Please take time to discover our province. Beyond our stunning landscapes, refreshing beaches, and vibrant culture, La Union offers tremendous potential for investment," Gov. Rafy said.

She added, "As you see, our province is strategically located, providing easy access to major markets in Northern Luzon. With our blooming tourism industry, thriving agriculture, and a rapidly growing economy, La Union presents a multitude of opportunities for business ventures and more importantly, partnerships."

On the second Day, Gov. Rafy further elaborated the opportunities in La Union through a presentation underscoring the potentials of the province in terms of investment, tourism, innovation, productivity and food security as La Union in envisioned to be the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.

The highlight of the event is the presence of Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who served as the keynote speaker. Rep. Arroyo discussed the perspectives and advocacies that will direct the plans and programs of the government to position North Luzon as the investment destination and tourism hub.

Rep. Arroyo further mentioned that she believes that President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr.'s ilocano identity contributes to reaching the potential of North Luzon as an investment hub.

The success of the 32nd NLABC left a lasting impression on participants and business leaders, who now view North Luzon as a land of opportunities and potential. The Provincial Government remains optimistic and eager in working hand in hand with future investors and partners to transform the province into a thriving economic powerhouse in North Luzon.

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