Friday, October 24, 2025

HappeningPH Diplomacy! From Laguna to Jakarta: Trade Attaché Who Founded the First-Ever Indonesian Business Association-Philippines (IBAP)

HappeningPH Diplomacy! From Laguna to Jakarta: Trade Attaché Who Founded the First-Ever Indonesian Business Association-Philippines (IBAP)

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Embassy of Indonesia in Manila Trade Attaché Visits PCCI Los Baños

On October 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Los Baños (PCCI-LB) hosted a farewell gathering for Mr. Martin Pandapotan, the Trade Attaché of the Embassy of Indonesia in Manila, at Danielitos Restaurant in Bay, Laguna. The intimate event was organized by PCCI-LB Board Director Dar Sosa, in honor of the Trade Attaché’s strong partnership and friendship with the local business community.

For the past two years, Mr. Pandapotan has been a valuable ally and friend of PCCI Los Baños, strengthening ties between Filipino and Indonesian entrepreneurs. His close collaboration with PCCI-LB President Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas and Business Development Head Dar Sosa led to two successful Business Trade Missions to Jakarta, Indonesia, which opened doors for future joint ventures and investment opportunities.

Through these efforts, PCCI Los Baños developed a meaningful relationship with His Excellency Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo, resulting in a series of collaborative events hosted at both the Ambassador’s Residence and the Embassy of Indonesia in Manila, in partnership with the Embassy’s Arts and Cultural Department headed by Avi Harahap.

Another significant milestone from this collaboration was the establishment of the Indonesian Business Association–Philippines (IBAP)—the first of its kind in the country—founded through the combined efforts of Mr. Pandapotan, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, Dar Sosa, and Andrew Troy Nicolas. All three Filipino leaders now serve as members of the IBAP Board of Trustees, ensuring the continued growth of bilateral business relations between the Philippines and Indonesia.

The farewell event served not only as a celebration of friendship but also as a reaffirmation of PCCI Los Baños’ commitment to international collaboration, innovation, and regional economic growth. With leaders like Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas and partners like Mr. Martin Pandapotan, the bond between Indonesia and the Philippines continues to thrive—built on shared trust, cultural exchange, and a vision for mutual prosperity.