Mindanao is often described as a region of contrasts, possessing significant resources but facing development challenges, hosting skilled individuals yet not widely recognized, and having areas of stability alongside a lingering reputation for instability. While local leaders work toward inclusive growth, an underutilized resource that can contribute to Mindanao’s integration into global markets is the network of foreign chambers of commerce and diplomatic missions present on the island. Foreign chambers and honorary consulates serve practical functions beyond ceremonial roles by facilitating connections between Mindanao’s business community and international investors, markets, and technologies, organizing trade missions, investment forums, and business-to-business linkages, introducing capital, global standards, and innovation. They also contribute to policy development by collaborating with local governments and industry groups to advocate for improvements in infrastructure, transparency, and ease of doing business, with efforts intended to improve Mindanao’s ability to attract and maintain foreign investment. Negative travel advisories remain a challenge to Mindanao’s progress, but the diplomatic community and foreign chambers can help by disseminating current security assessments, issuing specific travel recommendations, and sharing examples of successful collaborations in Mindanao. A coordinated approach, such as creating a Mindanao International Partnerships Council, could unite local governments, foreign chambers, consulates, and business leaders to facilitate shared strategies for attracting investment, promoting exports, and advancing global branding, ultimately strengthening Mindanao’s connection to global markets.
