The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ private sector is pressing economic ministers to turn years of regional integration into actual business opportunities, investments and jobs, with easier trade rules and stronger support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the center of its agenda.

Damosa Land Inc. is stepping up its hospitality investments in Samal Island, with its upcoming 100-room TRYP by Wyndham Samal already 90 percent sold as the developer positions for rising tourism demand and better connectivity with Davao City.

Federal Land Inc. is bringing the Japanese principle of Kaizen, or continuous improvement, into its Philippine residential business as a long-term partnership with Japanese real estate and lifestyle companies moves from one project to a broader development strategy.