Conrado Hernaez Jr., Executive Director of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII), in Wednesday's edition of the Club 888 press forum at the Marco Polo Davao said of the 10 ECCP members who will be joining the event, six are based in Manila and four are based in Cebu.

"Among companies which are members of the ECCP are Nestle and the Siemens. Last year, the deputy ambassador of US was here in the city during the Date. About 50 US-based companies joined the event last year," Hernaez said.

He said US-based companies will not be attending this year, not because of the travel advisories, but because they have already participated in the event last year.

Hernaez added that at present, close to 100 exhibitors have already signified their participation to Date 2008.

He also said that DCCCII, the organizer of the event, is targeting to have 200 exhibitors this year.

"Last year, we only had 150 exhibitors. Sales placed at P79 million. This time, we hope to maintain the figure considering that all cost of goods and services are increasing," Hernaez said.

He said that DCCCII hopes to have a very good road show, which will entice provincial government units in the region to also participate in the event.

He also announced that the Provincial Governments of Davao del Sur and North Cotabato are likewise expected to join the event.

He claimed that last year, only the provincial units of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental have attended.

Hernaez also noted that with DATE's 10th year, DCCCII is hoping it will be sustainable and will continue for the next coming years.

He said this time, the event will focus on the development of organic farm produce such as vegetables, rice, and bananas.

In fact, booths of the groups that produce organic products, will be visible outside and inside the Davao Convention and Trade Center, venue of the event. - Joy Romares-Sevilla