Information and news about the USAID Growth with Equity in Mindanao III (GEM 3) Project

The Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Kutwato recently held its election to choose executive officers and members of the board of trustees (l-r): Hdji. Esmael Sacandal, vice president for external affairs; Samra Alik, executive director; Brahim Kunsa and Hdji. Esmael Sema, board members; Hji. Abdulnasser Sema, public relations officer; Baingan Candao, coporate auditor; Hadji. Mohaliden Datumanong, corporate treasurer; Hdja. Bai Zainab Datumanong, corporate secretary; Uz. Esmael Ebrahim, Al-hdji, president; Dr. Zulficar Ali Panda, chairman of the board; and Mohammad Mang, board member. With assistance from USAID’s Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program, the chamber has successfully advocated for improved business conditions and showcased trade and investment opportunities GEM’s Business Growth component works with chambers of commerce and producer associations throughout conflict-affected areas of Mindanao to improve the business climate and thereby to accelerate business growth and economic development. The implementation of GEM is overseen by the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCo). (GEM).

Published in The Daily Tribune, April 9, 2008;
Mindanao Daily Mirror, April 9, 2008