Cebu Gears Up for BLUERISE2025: A Pioneering Push for a Sea-Connected, Resilient Philippines

The Queen City of the South is ready to take center stage in shaping the Philippines’ maritime future as it officially sets the stage for BLUERISE2025: Sugbo Maritima Expo & Blue Economy Infrastructure Convention (SME|BEIC), happening from June 25 to 27, 2025 at the IEC Convention Center, Cebu City.

This was announced during the official media launch held on May 30, 2025, at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, where event organizers, government representatives, and key industry partners came together to share the vision behind what is poised to be the country’s largest platform for blue economy innovation and collaboration.

“This is a defining step for Cebu,” said Frances Gatungay, head of Full-Force MarketStrat Gateway (FMG), the main organizer of BLUERISE2025. “It’s not just a showcase—it’s a movement that brings together key players from business, policy, and civil society to build a resilient, sea-connected future.”

A Vision Anchored in Cebu’s Maritime Legacy
Carrying the theme “Sustainable Seas, Thriving Communities,” BLUERISE2025 reflects Cebu’s deep maritime roots and its evolving role in global coastal development. The event seeks to highlight sustainable marine innovations, foster industry partnerships, and inspire inclusive economic growth anchored in ocean stewardship.

Co-organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), in collaboration with Quantum Quatro Ventures Inc. (QQVI), and co-presented by the Cebu City Government, the event is backed by national and local government agencies including the Department of Energy (DOE), DICT, BFAR, and various coastal and maritime organizations.

“Sustainable maritime growth is no longer optional—it is essential,” said Jillian Sitchon, ECCP-Cebu Branch Officer. “BLUERISE2025 bridges business and policy, and aligns with ECCP’s Race to Zero campaign, which calls on industries to halve emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050.”

What to Expect: Four Signature Events

The expo-convention will host four simultaneous activities that blend policy, innovation, and opportunity:

Exhibition Hall – A dynamic space featuring innovations in maritime technology, coastal infrastructure, marine tourism, renewable energy, ICT, and logistics.

Plenary Hall Conversations – Expert forums and dialogues on climate resilience, maritime governance, infrastructure innovation, and blue economy growth.

Pocket Seminar on RA 12021 – A legal literacy session on the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers, empowering maritime professionals with knowledge of their rights.

Seafarers’ Career Fair – A recruitment hub connecting job-seeking seafarers with top local and international manning agencies.

“Including RA 12021 in this event is a powerful move,” shared Nino Mike Torrevillas, ITF Inspector for Cebu. “This ensures our maritime workers are informed, protected, and recognized as key stakeholders in this industry.”

Why Now? The Urgency of the Blue Economy

With its archipelagic geography and over 36,000 kilometers of coastline, the Philippines is rich with potential to lead in the blue economy—an economic model rooted in the sustainable use of ocean resources.

In 2023 alone, Cebu’s ports handled 69.2 million metric tons of cargo, highlighting the region’s critical role in trade and transport. This underscores the need for investment in coastal infrastructure, marine biodiversity, ocean-based energy, and digital port systems.

“The blue economy is the future of inclusive development and climate action,” said Sitchon, emphasizing the need for business and policy alignment to sustain economic and environmental gains.

Widespread Support Across Sectors

The press conference showcased the broad coalition behind BLUERISE2025—from energy and maritime agencies to environmental and local government bodies.

“We need strong linkages across the energy, maritime, and infrastructure sectors,” noted Dir. Renante Sevilla, of the DOE Visayas Field Office. “This platform allows us to scale ocean-based renewable energy and build climate-resilient communities.”

Other supporters echoed the event’s importance in professional development and environmental protection.
Mr. Prince Batiancilla, President of Cebu Maritime Group (CMG), emphasized the event’s role in modernizing seafaring and port systems, while Ed Karlon Rama, of the Cebu City Bantay Dagat Commission, praised it for promoting community awareness and marine resource conservation.

Sweet Partnerships and Cebuano Hospitality
The event’s media launch was graciously hosted by Waterfront Hotels & Casino – Cebu City, with the support of local brands like Audrey’s Confectioneries and Tuburan Coffee. These Cebuano favorites added a touch of warmth and flavor to the launch, reflecting the collaborative, homegrown spirit driving the initiative.

Exhibitor and Partner Slots Still Open
Organizers have confirmed that BLUERISE2025 is still accepting exhibitors, sponsors, and partners from a wide range of industries including maritime logistics, aquatic tourism, ocean energy, fisheries, ICT, and water treatment.

Interested parties may contact [email protected] or call +63 927 480 0833 to secure a booth or partnership package.

Be Part of the Blue Rise

Whether you’re a startup pioneering ocean tech, a policymaker shaping sustainable trade, a seafarer looking for opportunity, or a community advocate for coastal protection—BLUERISE2025 invites you to ride the wave of transformation and take part in building a resilient, sustainable, and sea-connected Philippines.