Manila, Philippines, 4 November 2024 – On 18 October 2024, Quisumbing Torres hosted its first “Construction Law Developments in the Asia Pacific” seminar in Manila. The event brought together industry leaders, legal experts, and stakeholders to discuss critical topics in the construction sector, focusing on cross-border construction dispute avoidance, management and resolution, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations.
The event featured two engaging 1-hour sessions with dispute resolution and construction lawyers from various member firms of Baker McKenzie International in the Asia Pacific regional offices. These sessions provided a platform for participants to share their views and concerns, fostering a more engaging discussion on navigating recent developments in the region.
In the first session, the discussion revolved around ESG and how it impacts the construction industry. The growing interest in both dispute avoidance/resolution and ESG presents a unique opportunity for companies to integrate ESG principles into their operations, aiming to mitigate risks and minimize disputes. This panel discussion was joined by Nandakumar Ponniya (Baker & McKenzie / Wong & Leow), Ngoc Quan Hoang (BMVN International LLC), and Nadia Soraya (HHP Law Firm), and moderated by Michael Macapagal (Quisumbing Torres).
In the second session, the crucial role of effective dispute avoidance and resolution was highlighted to assist participants in navigating the complexity of construction projects. This panel discussion was joined by Suksawat Watewai (Baker McKenzie Bangkok), Janice Tay (Wong & Partners), David Kim (Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm), and Yoshiaki Muto (Baker McKenzie Gaikokuho Joint Enterprise), and moderated by Donemark Calimon (Quisumbing Torres). The speakers provided practical tips for companies engaged in construction to avoid or manage disputes.
The creation of this event was driven by the recognition that construction remains a key driver of economic growth in the Philippines. With the government’s infrastructure programs and the increasing number of construction projects, the need for effective and enforceable dispute resolution processes has never been more critical. The integration of ESG principles is becoming a global priority for businesses across various industries, and the construction industry is no exception. The event highlighted how the construction sector has a significant opportunity to lead the way in embedding ESG considerations into its business models, given its role in shaping the future of communities beyond private interests.
Quisumbing Torres extends its gratitude to all speakers and participants for their valuable contributions, making the event a resounding success. The firm looks forward to continuing the dialogue on these critical issues and supporting the construction industry’s growth and sustainability efforts in the country, and in the Asia Pacific region.