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IN PHOTO, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: POCB Chief Trade Industry Development Specialist Ms. Irma V. Merza, POCB Executive Director Ms. Doris U. Gacho, B2BASEAN President Mr. Lubarto Sartoyo, B2BASEAN CEO Mr. Amerigo V. Tatel, and POCB Trade Industry Development Specialist Mr. Kevin D. Bataller)
POCB AND B2BASEAN SIGN LANDMARK MOU TO EXPAND PHILIPPINE CAE SERVICES IN RUSSIA
Makati City, Philippines – Marking a significant milestone in international trade, the Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB), has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Alliance of Business Structures and Entrepreneurs of Southeast Asia (B2BASEAN), to propel Filipino Construction, Architecture, and Engineering (CAE) services into the Russian and broader ASEAN markets.
The ceremonial signing sealed the culmination of earlier discussions that started in 2024, during which parties expressed shared interest in exploring opportunities for market integration and joint initiatives. With the formalization of this partnership, POCB and B2BASEAN now embark on a focused mission to implement market-entry strategies, promote business linkages, and create a robust platform for CAE services.
B2BASEAN, a regional business catalyst with strong ties across Russia and Southeast Asia, reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating cross-border business exchange, particularly through virtual collaboration platforms that support digital and remote project delivery for CAE companies in the Philippines, Russia, and other ASEAN countries. Mr. Lubarto Sartoyo and Mr. Amerigo V. Tatel, President and CEO, respectively, of B2BASEAN, echoed the same sentiment: “This agreement reflects our strong commitment to working together with POCB in driving sustainable growth and innovation.”
POCB Executive Director Doris Gacho underscored the significance of the MOU signing, describing it as a “defining moment in our journey as trade partners” and a timely opportunity for both organizations to collaborate on initiatives that deliver meaningful impact. She emphasized that the partnership goes beyond exploring opportunities; it equips participants with the knowledge and cultural insight needed for success, laying the groundwork for deeper economic ties and inclusive global engagement.
This MOU builds on a shared recognition of key opportunities in CAE services, talent mobility, knowledge sharing, and capacity building. With the agreement now formalized, POCB and B2BASEAN will launch strategic initiatives, including trade missions, B2B networking sessions, business webinars, and targeted promotional activities, to support Filipino and Russian CAE firms in expanding their global presence.
As the Philippines intensifies efforts to export high-value services, the POCB–B2BASEAN partnership will serve as a springboard for the internationalization of the country’s CAE sector, translating potential into measurable outcomes and vision into actionable opportunities.
For more information on how POCB supports the growth of CAE businesses overseas, interested parties may contact POCB@construction.gov.ph or mobile at +63-917-842-2254. For updates and announcements, follow POCB on Facebook at facebook.com/DTI.CIAP.POCB and visit the CIAP official website at www.construction.gov.ph.
