The Philippine-Russian Business Assembly (PRBAI) is the principal organization that drives business and economic relations between the Philippines and the Russian Federation. Formed in 2009, it is the first of its kind and a pioneering effort to create opportunities and improve business relations between the countries.
The Officers of the PRBAI are exemplary individuals who have proven track record in business and government, are knowledgeable about economic policy and aware of the latest information on investment priorities in Russia and the Philippines.
The Philippine-Russian Business Forum, held in August 2009, was the latest major project of the PRBAI. A resounding success, the Forum brought together for the first time representatives from Russian and Philippines business in a dialogue of historic significance. The forum was also attended by no less than Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo herself. The President expressed her admiration and support for the efforts of PRBA and committed accelerated efforts to bridge the Philippines and Russia by establishing more air travel linkages and promoting trade. The organization is currently expanding its membership and inviting all business entities in both countries to participate in this new opportunity for travel, cultural exchange, trade and investment.
Cebus Link to Russia
Diplomatic and economic relations between the Philippines and the Russian Federation have grown steadily in the past two decades, culminating in the 2007 appointment of a new Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation for the Philippines, Armi Lopez Garcia. Since the 1990s, Consul Garcia has worked tirelessly as a private citizen to promote cultural exchange and business ties between the countries, organizing art exhibits in the Philippines, bringing a contingent of Filipino dancers to Russia, and leading successful business missions and exhibitions.
Now Consul Garcia serves in a greater capacity in a role that she clearly loves, as official liaison between Russia and the Philippine provinces of Cebu, Bohol and Aklan. Her goals are clear: making progress in diplomacy, international politics, international business, and the arts; strengthening relationships further; facilitating greater cultural understanding between Russians and Filipinos; and seeking out opportunities that are mutually beneficial for the two nations.
Through her numerous travels, and many friendships with Russian nationals, Consul Garcia has discovered that Filipinos and Russians have many things in common: a love of camaraderie, strong religious roots and a mixed European‐Asian heritage. She sees a strong and interdependent link between tourism, trade and investment, and is working hard to move the Philippine‐Russian relationship forward in all of these areas.
Download ARMI LOPEZ GARCIA Summary of Recent Accomplishments as Russian Consul 2008‐2009
Officers of the Philippine-Russian Business Assembly
President and Chairperson
Armi Lopez Garcia
Vice Chairperson for Investments
Dr. Alberto Fenix, Jr.
Past President, PCCI
VC for Trade and Promotions
Bert Pascual
VC for Tourism
Frederic Ong
VC for Cultural Affairs
Dr. Milagros Espina
VC for Services
Former Commissioner Atty. Jose Buñag
VC Economic Affairs
Dr. Ernesto Pernia
Secretary General
Jose Alberto Zaide
PRO
Atty. Ernesto Limkakeng
Treasurer
Romy Roxas