The Center for Research and Communication’s (CRC) Institute for Local Development (ILD) recently met with Chris Ilagan, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (CanCham), to explore opportunities for meaningful collaboration in advancing local development initiatives across the country.
The meeting highlighted the importance of building strong partnerships among academic institutions, the private sector, and development-oriented organizations in addressing the evolving needs of local governments and communities. At the heart of the discussion was CRC-ILD’s commitment to bridging research and practice. As a development-focused institute, CRC-ILD continues to explore ways by which evidence-based research, policy advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration can work together to create tangible and lasting impact on the ground. The conversation also underscored the value of international business networks in supporting local development efforts in the Philippines. Canadian companies and organizations have long contributed to initiatives that promote innovation, sustainability, and responsible business practices.
CRC-ILD looks forward to deepening its engagement with CanCham and working alongside Canadian companies and organizations to turn shared ideas into tangible outcomes for local governments and communities across the Philippines.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines President Chris Ilagan (2nd from right) meeting with CRC (L-R: Kevin Benico, Operations Manager; Mir Tillah, ILD Director; Atty. Philip Yeung, President; and Caloi Enriquez, Local Governance Lead)
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