What we do
The Institute of Contemporary Economics is a multi-disciplinary think tank which aims to be a credible thought leader in the policy-making space. It seeks to promote a vibrant and sustainable economic environment particularly in Western Visayas. This underlies a belief that a strong and healthy economy is a pre-requisite to uplifting the lives of our people. As a think tank, the Institute will be an organization that will use specialized knowledge to report on and perform research on a wide variety of subjects. It advocates for necessary interventions by using our research to influence public opinion and policymakers. Analytical reports produced by the Institute will play an influential role in helping decision-makers craft major policy agendas.
Who we are
Our story
The Institute of Contemporary Economics (ICE) was born from a simple belief: a thriving economy is the cornerstone of a better life for all. We are an organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant and sustainable economic environment in Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, and across the entirety of Panay Island.
Our story starts with Iloilo, a region rich in history, culture, and untapped potential. We see a city poised for growth, a province teeming with resources, and an island brimming with talented individuals. Yet, we also recognize the challenges that stand in the way of progress. Limited opportunities, uneven development, and a need for economic diversification hold back Panay’s full potential.
This is where ICE steps in. We are a group of passionate economists and scholars who believe in the power of data-driven solutions. Through in-depth research, policy analysis, and collaboration, we aim to:
- Identify key economic drivers: We delve into the heart of Panay’s economy, pinpointing existing strengths and emerging opportunities in industries like tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.
- Inform policy decisions: Our research provides valuable insights to policymakers, helping them craft effective regulations and programs that support business growth and job creation.
- Empower communities: We bridge the gap between economic theory and real-world application. We work alongside local communities to develop and implement practical solutions that address their specific needs.
- Champion sustainability: We advocate for an economic model that promotes long-term growth without compromising the environment or the well-being of future generations.
Our story is not written in isolation. We collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders – businesses, government agencies, academic institutions, and most importantly, the people of Panay. Together, we foster an environment of open dialogue and shared ownership over the economic future of the island.
At ICE, we believe that a strong economy is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. We envision a Panay where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. A place where businesses flourish, communities prosper, and a rising tide truly lifts all boats. This is the story we are writing, one opportunity, one success story, and one brighter future at a time.
Join us on this journey. Let’s build a Panay that is not only economically vibrant, but also socially just and ecologically sustainable. Together, let’s make our story a resounding success.
The Team
“Junie”
Artemio Pama
Junie is currently Chief Executive Office of Quantum Digital Services, Inc., a managed services provider in the digital connectivity space. He is a recognized practitioner in the Technology, Media and Telecommunications (TMT) space with expertise built from having been in the TMT industry for over 30 years.
Junie is a graduate of the University of the Philippines with a degree in Business Management.
Rani Rodriguez
Rani is the Chairman of Advance Central College in San Jose, Antique. He also serves as the President of the Antique Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Rani is actively involved in civic society. He serves as an officer and member of civic and advisory organizations from the provincial to the national level. His involvement spans the areas of vocational education, climate change and labor and employment. Rani has post-graduate certifications in Education Technology from friEDTech. He completed his undergraduate degree in Humanities at the University of the Philippines and received his masters’ degree in Information Technology from the West Visayas State University.
“Bonnie”
Joseph L. Ladrido
A seasoned corporate executive, Bonnie was CEO of Metro Sanitas Corporation and Maayo Medical Clinic Corporation, two healthcare services providers. He also held several senior executive positions with the Healthway Qualimed group. Bonnie’s background as a financial professional has involved stints with BNP Paribas, Barclays de Zoete Wedd, Kaupthing Bank (New York) and Trilogy Financial Services (Huntington Beach, California). He was also an Associate Director with the Corporate Strategy group of Ayala Corporation. He also served as Treasurer of the Philippine Football Federation.
Bonnie earned his Master’s degree in Management at the Arthur D Little School of Management (now Hult International Business School) in Boston, Massachusetts. He has an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of the Philippines.
Bonnie is the Chairman of GreenEnergy87 Power Corporation, a renewable energy power generator. He also serves as Economic Adviser to the Governor of the Province of Iloilo. He is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and Head of the Membership Committee of the Iloilo-Guimaras Football Association.
“Raj”
Andre C. Palacios
Raj currently serves as Associate Dean of the University of the Philippines College of Law. As a legal practitioner, he is a Partner at LGTON Law and specializes in international law and infrastructure law, particularly public-private partnerships (PPPs). Raj is also an international law professor at the Philippine Judicial Academy, the director of the ASEAN Law Institute, the chair of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines international law committee and acts as legal adviser for infrastructure projects of the Asian Development Bank, Philippine government agencies, and private entities. He previously served as undersecretary heading the Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines, He was a senior World Bank lawyer handling debarment cases involving infrastructure and development projects. Raj earned his bachelor’s degrees in education and law from the University of the Philippines; and his master’s degree in international law, with merit, from University College London, University of London, where he was a Chevening scholar of the British Government.