By Karen de la Cruz, StratCom Correspondent

In its second year, Mariano Marcos State University hosted the 2024 International Business Conference on November 22, focusing on the theme “Decent Work and Economic Growth for a Sustainable Future.” The event gathered experts, academics, and business leaders to discuss innovative strategies for fostering sustainable economic development while ensuring equitable labor opportunities.

The conference featured keynote presentations from local to international speakers, including Mr. Zachary Espino, interim diversity, equity, inclusion, and access coordinator at the East-West Center in Hawaii; Prof. Colton Fagan of AG Education in Canada; Atty. Marie Stella Gudoy, an MMSU alumna and associate lawyer at Estelito P. Mendoza Law Office; and Prof. Mishael Joy Barerra, assistant professor of the MMSU College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA) and alumna of Ritsumeikan University in Japan.

Speakers tackled pressing topics such as the legal dimensions of decent work, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, transitioning to a green workforce, and developing sustainable green infrastructure. These sessions provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of building a sustainable economic future.

In his message, Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, MMSU vice president for research, development, and innovation, focused on the value of collaboration in addressing global challenges. “Sustainability and inclusivity are not just aspirations—they are imperatives. Through this conference, we aim to create actionable solutions that resonate beyond academic discussions and into real-world impact,” he expressed.

In agreement, CBEA Dean Angelina Abrojena reinforced the importance of convening academic and industry leaders to address pressing socio-economic problems. “This gathering serves as a means to strengthen innovation and partnerships that align with our shared vision of a sustainable future. It is our responsibility to empower our faculty, students, and stakeholders to be catalysts of change,” she stated.

Among the participants were representatives from organizations and institutions, including the AGA Academy in Canada, East-West Center in Hawaii, Ritsumeikan University in Japan, Department of Education, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Cagayan State University, University of Caloocan City, Nueva Vizcaya State University, West Visayas State University, University of Northern Philippines, Toyota Manila Bay, City Governments of Laoag and Batac, and MMSU.

The International Business Conference continues to serve as a valuable platform for thought leaders, researchers, and industry practitioners to exchange ideas and collaborate on solutions to global economic challenges, with sustainability and inclusivity at its core.