Shanghai  – Engendering an entrepreneurial mindset and seizing opportunities in PH’s burgeoning franchising sector took the spotlight at the first session of the Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan webinar series held on 4 June. Over 100 Filipinos attended.

Organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Shanghai (PTIC) and local Filipino organization The Filipino Teachers in Shanghai (TFT), the webinar featured resource speakers from the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA).

PFA Chair Sherrill Ramos Quintana provided an overview of the work of the PFA and a snapshot of notable trends in the Philippines’ rapidly expanding franchising landscape.

President Sam Christopher Lim covered the fundamental elements and benefits of franchising. He shared valuable advice on evaluating franchisors and the commitment expected from franchisees. Especially well-received were his tips tailored to overseas Filipino workers on making sound franchise investment decisions and on avoiding pitfalls.

Keynoting the event, Consul General Josel F. Ignacio urged Shanghai OFWs to become overseas Filipino investors (OFI) as well. He cited franchising as a viable and tested business model by which remittances can both raise OFW families’ living standards but with an added powerful multiplier effect that contributes to the larger economy. The well-attended webinar saw the participants engage the speakers in a lively exchange in the ensuring open forum. END