Taytay Means Business: A Municipality on the Move

October 19 & 20, 2022 Manila Philippines

“The private sector is the engine of growth.”
This was not a throwaway line. It was a statement of purpose—delivered by NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan with conviction during the 48th Philippine Business Conference and Expo, held on October 19–20, 2022 at The Manila Hotel.

Over a thousand business leaders, government officials, and development stakeholders convened—not for formalities, but to shape the future of the Philippine economy. It was a gathering defined by urgency, ambition, and clarity: sustainable growth will only be possible if the private sector takes the lead. But for that to happen, government must move from regulator to enabler.

Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio opened the event by calling for resilience and national unity. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. followed by outlining his administration’s economic priorities: infrastructure expansion, job creation, SME support, and long-term investment in innovation. These weren’t just promises—they were policy directions aimed at one thing: empowering the private sector to succeed.

The message was clear: progress depends on partnership.
The government must set the stage—but it’s the private sector that must drive the performance.

Throughout the conference, three themes dominated the agenda: investments, MSME development, and employment. But just beneath the surface, deeper questions lingered: Where will real opportunities emerge? What risks must we prepare for? And how can we act now to future-proof our economy?

One of the most powerful moments came with the recognition of the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Units (LGUs) and Outstanding Chambers of Commerce. It was a reminder that national goals are only achieved through local execution. It is in the towns and cities of this country—not the national capital—where policies are tested, businesses take risks, and jobs are created.

And this is where the story of Taytay, Rizal begins.

There’s a quiet confidence building in Taytay—and it’s quickly turning into bold ambition. Under the leadership of Mayor Allan De Leon and the proactive efforts of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO), led by Ms. Cristina “Chin” Gonzales, a clear vision is emerging:

Taytay isn’t just aiming to join the ranks of business-friendly municipalities. It’s aiming to lead them.

The mantra is simple but powerful: SMILE, TAYTAY NA!
It’s more than a slogan. It’s a declaration of intent.

Taytay is actively positioning itself as a premier destination for investment and entrepreneurship. With targeted policies, streamlined processes, and a pro-business climate, the municipality is setting a new standard in local economic governance. It is not waiting for opportunity to knock—it is building the doors and inviting growth in.

This isn’t just about chasing awards or recognition. It’s about building a strong, inclusive, and future-ready local economy. It’s about proving that smart governance, private sector collaboration, and community-driven development can deliver real, measurable results.

In a time when many are still recovering from the economic aftershocks of a global pandemic, Taytay is leaning forward. The municipality understands that the race for progress isn’t won by the biggest player—it’s won by those who move with clarity, speed, and purpose.

The ambition is real. The momentum is visible.
And the message is unmistakable: Taytay means business.

Padayon tayo. The journey is just beginning—but Taytay is already on the move.

By: Meme Borja