Happy New Year, everybody!

The past year was, unfortunately, a slow year (in my own opinion) for Davao’s IT industry. Perhaps, yes, some companies thankfully posted year-ender reports that showed financial growth. But for the industry as a whole, I doubt that we were much changed from 2005.

One sad fact for 2006 was that an organization that used to be very aggressive and forward-thinking, the Association of Solution Integrators in Davao, has fallen into disrepair, so to speak. It’s salvageable, no doubt about that. The problem is the group’s direction-setting capabilities. It shall be solved, and–since I have a personal stake in it as well–I will endeavor to help it back on its feet. Regrettably, due to the its relative inactivity in 2006, the Association will not be joining e-Services 2007 this February. Thankfully, the Department of Trade & Industry, a stalwart supporter of Davao IT, will still be sending delegates to the exhibit in order to represent the Davao Region.

Still and all, it’s a whole year ahead of us, still full of opportunities. Just into the 19th day of the year and I think I might have successfully made the first step in penetrating into the elusive Japanese market. Also, a Davaoeño investor is building the city’s first IT park, which is slated to be completed this year. This should mean more business locators into Davao.

As 2007 progresses, I’ll be here to document, comment, and perhaps lament some more. Although I do hope I’ll be doing more of hurrays instead.